Plan to make Swindon village marina bigger is thrown out

Campaigners are celebrating after plans to increase the size of a controversial marina being built in South Staffordshire were thrown out.

The proposals for Swindon had been recommended for approval. But members of the district council's regulatory committee last night raised concerns over parking and said the even larger boating hub would be too big for the village.

Councillors unanimously agreed to refuse the plan, expressing disappointment that it was back on the agenda.

After the meeting Swindon resident Gordon Fanthom, of Hinksford Gardens, who has campaigned for years against the plans, said: "I'm very pleased. Common sense has prevailed finally."

Chairman of Swindon Parish Council, Dr Richard Painter, added: "The parish council objected to these plans. The residents of Swindon will be very glad to hear of the decision."

During the meeting, members of the committee said they were disappointed to see the marina on the agenda once again.

Original proposals for a 252-boat marina were submitted by Tim and Joanna Munday in 2009. Plans prompted objections from more than 200 residents.

Revised plans were submitted for 226 narrowboats, before it was scaled down further to 199 boats. Those were approved in December 2010. The latest plan was to increase it to 236 boats.

Swindon Councillor Roger Lees said: "This will intensify parking problems.

"The scale of the the proposal is disproportional to the village of Swindon. It will be harmful to the openness of the greenbelt."

Meanwhile Lower Penn Councillor Joan Williams told the committee: "Enough is enough. I feel this further application should be blown out of the water."

Kinver Councillor Brian Edwards added: "I was very upset when I saw this was coming back to us again."

As well as the marina, an office, farm shop, tea rooms, gift shop, viewing gallery area and a car park on around 22 acres will be created. The scheme will create around 10 new jobs.

By Laura Blyth