Planning Application
The Derwent Forest site is seen by the Partnership as
having 'flagship' potential, offering an exceptional
opportunity to deliver real benefit to the West Cumbrian economy
and to the people who live in and visit the area. However, a number
of significant development constraints currently burden the site
with a negative value of approximately £2 million.
The public sector investment in the site is aimed at removing
these constraints to create a Regional Forest Park, which will also
provide continued habitat and protection for a range of flora and
fauna including bats and great crested newts. These species will
require careful management (under a DEFRA licence) during the
remediation of the site.
The Planning Application is seeking approval for the following
elements:-
- Two new car parks
- A new visitor centre
- A new off-site access road
It is intended that the completed forest park will eventually
accommodate five/six development sites (comprising 53 ha) which
will attract new businesses to West Cumbria as well as
opportunities for local businesses to expand and diversify.
Where appropriate these will be subject to separate planning
applications.
Planning Policy guidance
Allerdale Borough Council's Planning Policy Department have
produced a document giving guidance on the potential development of
the site which is available to download below.