A NEW campsite which will include yurts, tipis and holiday caravans has been given the go-ahead by Forest planners.

Plans to change the use of a paddock on land next to Corner House in Yorkley Wood Road in Yorkley were approved at a meeting on July 11.

The Forest of Dean site would accommodate touring caravans, camper vans, tents, bell tents and tipis totalling 18 pitches.

And the plans include the construction of a reception building and toilet and shower block along with a new access.

Some 29 people objected to Forest of Dean District Council over the scheme and 67 residents signed a petition against the proposals.

They raised concerns over the amount of extra traffic which the site would attract to the single track lane which has a lack of passing and turning areas.

Objectors also said it would create unsafe road conditions and increase noise and light pollution.

Councillor Julia Gooch (I, Newent and Taynton), who told the development management committee she has never been on a flight, said more campsites would allow people to holiday locally instead of “flying off and increasing carbon footprint”.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the district to have another campsite in the area”, she said.

Cllr Gooch moved the officer’s recommendation to approve and this was seconded by Cllr Gill Moseley (LD, Newent and Taynton).

Councillor John Francis (I, Longhope and Huntley) asked if the extra caravans on the narrow roads would cause more problems.

Chairman Dave Wheeler (G, Newland and Sling) said he was concerned about the visual aspect of the plans.

“It is why I’m so concerned about the size of teepees. If it’s at the top of a ridge the tipis are going to go above the treeline.”

The committee voted to approve the plans in line with the officer’s recommendation by 5 for three against and three abstentions.