Birchwood Lakes' multi-million development granted
Habitat First Group will transform the old Quarry into 158 cabins & lodges and a 40-bedroom hotel with spa and pool facilities.
The North Devon Council has approved the development of Birchwood Lakes, which will in turn create 100 jobs during its construction as well as additional maintenance and customer service roles following its official opening. Habitat First Group predict that the 63-hectare holiday destination will bring £3.9 million to the local economy every year through visitor expenditure.
The former quarry is set to be restored into a nature reserve after it ceased operation in 2006.
Habitat First Group announced that Birchwood Lakes will offer "world-class nature conservation alongside the sustainable holiday accommodation" and represents "an exemplar scheme within the North Devon Biosphere reserve, whose purpose is to harmonise development with the natural environment".
"We will continue to work closely with local councils and communities to ensure Birchwood Lakes is a successful site that tourists and residents can enjoy together. We will create a thriving habitat for local wildlife and will provide leisure facilities designed for all ages to enjoy."
The site will be open to local residents, who will be encouraged to use the new footpaths in order to navigate the reserve and be able to watch the surrounding wildlife. There will be a heritage trail which will be accessible to both holidaymakers and locals alike via the Tarka Trail.
Source: Devon Live