PLANS for a tourism development including 18 static caravans near Beith have been approved in principle.

The holiday home proposals have been given the go ahead for the site next to Willow Park in Burnhouse, off Lochlibo Road.

Applicants J & R Park Homes purchased the park in 2012, with the site having been used as a residential caravan park for more than 40 years.

Willow Park is split into two sections; a developed area that consists of around 30 residential park homes for retired and semi retired people, and to the rear an unused amenity grassland field to be used for this development.

Indicative plans state that the tourist homes will be “sensitively sited to protect existing views and access rights”.

Agents Cogeo said in a supporting statement: “The coffee hut, picnic zone and dog exercise area detailed within the plan are important aspects of this proposal providing a communal space where existing residents and new visitors can meet.

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“Also detailed within this plan is a wildlife pond to attract habitat to the site whilst providing a tranquil atmosphere for visitors.

“A residential bungalow is proposed for use of a site manager who will be employed to oversee the operation and maintenance of the park.

“Space for a sewage system has been highlighted to replace the current failing septic tank, proposed to support the existing Park Homes and residential houses within Burnhouse, as well as the new tourist development.”

Despite 11 public objections being received, planning bosses at North Ayrshire Council said the proposed development would bring “benefits to the wider North Ayrshire economy, since visitors would likely travel to other locations in the area”.

Concerns raised included noise and light pollution, a lack of infrastructure to support more tourists, and claims that the new holiday homes would mark a “blight on the picturesque countryside”.

The supporting statement added: “The addition of the tourist development at Willow Park would attract new tourists to North Ayrshire.

“As a holiday destination, Willow Park would stand out to holidaymakers for its high-quality accommodation and age restrictions making it an attractive location for those seeking a relaxing and quiet getaway without the hustle and bustle of a typical holiday park.

“This provides a standout selling point of the site, benefiting the applicant’s business, surrounding local businesses and North Ayrshire as a whole.”