Appeal against refusal of nine holiday chalets between Newbury and Thatcham dismissed

An appeal against West Berkshire Council’s refusal of nine three-bed holiday chalets at Hambridge Lakes has been dismissed.

The proposal also included a clubhouse with parking areas, raised walkways and access from Hambridge Road on the site between Thatcham and Newbury.

But the Government’s planning inspector refused the application citing its effect on the character and appearance of the area and on biodiversity.

While they acknowledged the economic benefits of drawing tourists, they said the benefit of increasing access to the lake would be limited given it would remain private.

The appeal was made by site owner Steve Hamilton, of RPS Group, who previously said the purpose of the development as for recreational holiday leisure use only.

An application for five two-bed chalets at the same site was also refused in May 2024.

The council has since issued a tree preservation order at the site.

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