Judge backs Council on Moneystone holiday lodges

A High Court judge has backed a decision by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council to approve planning permission for holiday lodges and leisure facilities at Moneystone Quarry.

Local resident Paul Housiaux had challenged the decision but his appeal was refused on Monday (4 September) by His Honour Judge Pelling QC who dismissed the claim on all counts.

The Judge also awarded the Council costs of £5,000 and refused permission for Mr Housiaux to appeal against his decision.

Chair of the Council's Planning Applications Committee, Councillor Stephen Ellis, said: "Planning applications can be contentious and the committee has to consider carefully the balance of factors before making decisions.

"I am pleased that Judge Pelling has agreed with the Council's decision to grant consent for the Moneystone Quarry scheme and, particularly, that he made positive reference to the full and detailed report prepared by officers which clearly explained the issues for consideration.

"It is also gratifying that the Judge supported the way in which the committee reached its decision."

The site is specifically identified as a key opportunity for new leisure development in the Council's Churnet Valley Masterplan.