A group of 16 trades have written in support of controversial plans for a South Cumbrian holiday resort.
ILM Group want to build the 233-lodge Roanhead Lodge Resort but the plans have faced massive opposition.
The proposals were scaled back from an original 450 lodges, which the developers said would significantly reduce the number of visitors to the site and potential associated impacts on the natural environment.
But ILM Group said that the 16 businesses and organisations, which account for 80% of the commercial presence in the Askam & Ireleth area, have each made representations to Westmorland and Furness Council in favour of the proposed delivery of 233 lodges at Roanhead Farm.
Among them are local pubs, car garages, food outlets, hair and beauty businesses, Marsh Farm Caravan Site, Askam Post Office, Charnley’s Garden Centre, and two local sports clubs: Duddon Sports & Social Club and Askam Rugby League Club.
Independent economic consultants, Hatch, project that Roanhead Lodge Resort will inject tens of millions into the local economy, providing an estimated £10.8m annually in visitor spending for Cumbria, predominantly in Barrow.
The resort’s construction is anticipated to generate 209 jobs and, once operational, it is projected to create 184 permanent positions. There will also be a training academy and ILM Group said it will work with local education providers.
Lee Stoller, who runs Stollers furniture store in Barrow, has written to the council. He said: ” The level of economic investment would be substantial.
“The area has not fully benefitted from Cumbria’s otherwise booming tourism sector, despite being an area with a lot to offer. The proposals for Roanhead Lodge Resort can help to grow the visitor economy by encouraging people to explore and spend in this part of the county, which will be of benefit to our local business community and the people who live and work here.”
John Parrott, owner of Polly’s Plaice fish and chip shop, said: “I’ve been conducting business in Askam-in-Furness for 22 years and the recent economic decline, marked by multiple closures of local businesses, has been a real setback for our community. Therefore, the prospect of a new resort presents a significant opportunity for rejuvenation and will be a great facility for people locally as well as the families of BAE workers.”
Marc Charnley, owner of Charnley’s Garden Centre said: “As a business in Dalton-in-Furness, it’s encouraging to see significant investment come into the area and the inevitable increase in footfall this will bring. The region has long grappled with job market diversity, and the prospect of numerous job and training opportunities, including in the hospitality sector, is undeniably positive news. This influx not only promises economic growth but also offers hope for a more vibrant and inclusive local economy.”
Andrew Coutts, CEO of ILM Group said: “This project represents a significant investment into the region which will have wider benefits for the local economy and community. I am delighted our proposals have received support from local businesses who have recognised the positive impact the resort will have on the area.”
