Vera Village Craster Faces Record Objections To Holiday Let Expansion

People in two Northumberland villages are upset. They object to a holiday let development going before the county council soon. Craster is known for its castle and kippers, a tranquil spot often featured on TV shows.

Residents worry about losing their peace. The plan is to expand Dunstan House, which they call a “mini-holiday park.” Locals protested the plan last year and even put signs up.

The council rejected prior plans in 2023, saying it would hurt the village’s heritage. The new plan includes many features like a pool, sauna, yoga pod, and park, and can house twenty-eight people.

The Parish Council opposes this new plan, which received 120 objections in total. Craster’s rules limit holiday lets, yet over half the homes are already holiday lets, making many people unhappy.

The council planning officer suggests approval, dependent on certain conditions like a payment for coastal work. The committee will discuss it on February 20.

One resident, Jackie Reeves, asks the council to reconsider, stating the community opposes the plan. They want to protect their village, important for the coast’s future.

Council Chair Martin Smith also spoke up, saying policies are well thought out. He thinks policies shouldn’t change for developers, and the plan causes major concern for residents.

The previous plans were rejected outright, and he stated that these new plans are worse. He has big worries about noise and safety, as well as fears damage to the environment, as visitors and residents enjoy quiet there.