Fishery extension plans turned down by inspector

Michael Wheeler applied for planning permission to enhance the offer at Leger Lakes, Laughton-en-le-Morthen.

The three applications had been rejected by Rotherham Council in January and February over concerns about inappropriate development in the green belt.

The site has mostly been used for agriculture, but there has also been the addition of an animal sanctuary, stables and fishing ponds.

Planning inspector Darren Hendley noted that permissions had been approved for an agricultural building, angler’s facilities, replacement stables and an extra fishing pond, plus the change of use from stables to holiday accommodation.

But a number of other proposals had been refused for the land, he added.

He ruled that the extended cafe and larger holiday accommodation would have an unacceptable effect on the character and appearance of the area, and the replacement animal shelter would represent inappropriate development in the green belt.

A retrospective application for a larger car park at the lakes was refused by RMBC in August.