EXCITEMENT is growing as plans to create a new glamping site in Cheshire have been revealed.

An application to change the use of land off Patmos Lane, Nether Peover, to accommodate six timber glamping pods has been submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The proposal would also see a timber reception building erected on the site, which will also provide a parking area for its guests.

A planning statement, prepared by Gary Deane Associates on behalf of the applicant, says: "Glamping is a type of camping that includes accommodation and facilities that are far more comfortable and luxurious than traditional camping.

"In this case, six timber pods and a small reception building would be sensitively sited within part of an unused field well away from the road and beyond the main house.

"No change is sought to the existing access or to the public right of way that crosses the site. No trees would be removed or cut back to accommodate the development."

According to the plans, if approved, four full-time jobs would be created.

The statement adds: "The proposal would help support employment in businesses elsewhere by encouraging trade with others.

"The tourist accommodation to be provided is intended to complement and diversify the offer to visitors that is provided by other establishments in the local area such as public houses, hotels and bed and breakfast outlets.

"The type of accommodation, coupled with the peaceful, verdant setting of the site would provide a pleasant and tranquil rural environment for guests."

Nearby businesses have welcomed the 'exciting' plans.

The landlord and owner of the Bells of Peover pub, quoted in the planning statement, said: "I am just writing to say how excited I am to hear of the proposed plans.

"The idea of having this type of accommodation in the local vicinity would stimulate more business for local existing establishments such as mine, the nursery, the cafes and surrounding villages and towns like Holmes Chapel, Knutsford and Northwich etc."

Similarly, the owner of The Crown pub said: "The whole idea is very exciting for us and we would very much welcome the idea of a pod site close by as constantly we are asked about where visitors can stay, so it’s obvious there is a shortage in the area" 

The owners of Plumleys Garden Centre added: "As glamping traditionally appeals to younger families and couples, we would welcome this as an opportunity to attract a wider audience as we traditionally depend on an older demographic."

To view and comment on the plans, search for reference 23/03728/FUL on the council's online planning portal.