New Forest District Council looks set to approve revised changes to Shorefield Country Park in Milford, which caused outcry from residents who feared “Butlin’s style resort”

A RAFT of improvements at a Milford holiday park look set to be approved by NFDC – after the company was forced to resubmit plans following a furious backlash from locals.

As reported in the A&T, Shorefield Country Park was accused of trying to turn the site in Shorefield Road into a “Butlins-style resort” due to its plans for a stage, outdoor screen, elevated seating, event lighting and bar.

It also proposed a waterpark, mini golf course and play area, but withdrew the application after it drew more than 180 objections.

A new application, which ditched the outdoor stage but retained a central entertainment area featuring a splash pad, nine-hole mini golf, children’s play park and a multi-use games area, is set to be discussed by NFDC next week.

A report to members recommends approval for the plans, which also include extending the staff car park and remodelling the arrivals parking area.

The application drew 75 objections from members of the public, who raised concerns of overdevelopment, additional traffic and noise.

Others were concerned the activity lawn could be used to stage large scale events such as concerts, parties and festivals.

Milford Parish Council also objected on similar grounds, as well as raising concerns over the impact on wildlife and nesting birds.

However, a report to district councillors states the proposal is in line with policy, which takes “a positive approach” to supporting the local tourism industry and adds: “The proposed facilities are typical of those one might expect to find in a modern holiday park facility.”

The proposal would not create any additional vehicle movements, and the impact on the area from additional noise and light pollution could be “suitably mitigated” through conditions relating to hours of use, it added.