Alton Water: Campsite proposals for 92 camping pitches lodged by owners Anglian Water
Anglian Water, which owns the site, is seeking planning permission to create 92 serviced camping pitches at the water park. - Credit: Archant
Proposals for a new campsite at Alton Water near Ipswich are being considered by council bosses, it can be revealed.
Anglian Water, which owns the site, is seeking planning permission to create 92 serviced camping pitches at the water park.
The proposals, developed after pre-application discussions with Babergh District Council, also include a new shower and toilet block on a field opposite the existing car park.
Simon Waters, Anglian Water’s head warden at Alton Water, said the move is part of a long-term plan to improve the water park – the largest area of inland water in Suffolk – for people and wildlife. Other planned changes include renovating the existing visitor centre and improving the water sports centre.
Mr Waters said: “The changes we are putting forward are about encouraging leisure and tourism in this area, enhancing the education facilities and sustainability of the park and improving it for more people to enjoy.”
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He said representatives from the water company have discussed the plans with parish councillors.
The application is now being considered by planning chiefs at Babergh District Council.
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If given the go-ahead, the campsite would be situated on an area of land behind the main picnic area, left of the water sports centre. Parking would be provided on the campsite.
The plans have been drawn up with advice from Babergh District Council and Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Mr Waters said they follow extensive assessments to ensure it is “considerate to residents and wildlife”.
He added: “The water park is already popular with locals and attracts a steady flow of visitors over the year, but we want to make sure it remains a popular family destination.
“The campsite would allow more people to stay overnight and explore further afield in the surrounding towns, which will have a knock-on benefit for the local business community.”
As well as the reservoir and water treatment works, the 300-hectare site has a sailing club and water sports centre, fishing and bird watching facilities, footpaths around the reservoir, cycle hire and a café, picnic area and children’s play area.
