Lake pollution fear over Shropshire hotel complex plans
A picturesque lake in Shropshire could be polluted if plans to build a 50-bed hotel and holiday lodges at a beauty spot go ahead, according to environmental experts.
The Environment Agency fears the development at Dearnford Lake on the outskirts of Whitchurch could be damaging to the area and has called for more information on the plans to be provided.
The agency submitted an objection to the plans saying there had not been enough information given "to demonstrate that the risk of pollution to controlled waters is acceptable".
Further ideas for the site include a spa and a restaurant, while the existing retail business would also be extended.
Rob Bebbington, the site's manager, said the plans would create more jobs for the area and turn the venue into a thriving tourist hub.
Rachel Whiteman, senior planning advisor for the Environment Agency said: "Part of the application site is a historic landfill identifying previous potentially contaminative uses.
"However, no information has been submitted as part of the planning application to confirm that the site is suitable for its intended use and that the proposed development would cause no unacceptable risk to the water environment."
The plans were submitted a few weeks ago and Shropshire Council will make a decision later this year.
Bosses at Dearnford Lake hope the site could be transformed into a thriving tourist attraction with a 50-bed hotel overlooking the lake, 10 timber holiday lodges, a spa, restaurant, cafe and an extension to the existing retail business.
And the proposal has been widely welcomed with customers at the current cafe showing support for the idea.
The venue has been open since 1993 and hosts a variety of activities, including swim nights, car boot sales and balls as well as an annual week-long triathlon festival which sees hundreds of athletes visit the lake each year.
The plans available to view on the Shropshire Council website.
