Shepherd’s hut installed for holiday accommodation in Milford without planning permission must cease operation

A shepherd’s hut installed for holiday accommodation without planning permission must cease operation, a planning inspector has ruled.

Tom and Juliette Chamberlain appealed against enforcement action taken by New Forest District Council after they changed the use of agricultural land to the south of Oakbridge House, Lymore Valley, Milford, to accommodate the dwelling, a hot tub and seating.

A new vehicle access off Lymore Valley, fencing and an area for parking vehicles was also created without permission.

However, planning inspector Paul Dignan ruled the council was right to take the action.

In a report he wrote that as the hut could be occupied by only two people at once, there was limited potential for disturbance to neighbours, but he noted some complaints had been made to the council regarding lighting, noise and smoke problems.

However, he added: “I consider that the creation of the new vehicular access and associated hardstanding and the erection of the fencing along the roadside are likely to have adversely affected the tranquil and verdant character and appearance of the area, as would the use, adding to activity along this quiet rural lane.”

He added the development was “inappropriate” due to the harm caused to the greenbelt.

New Forest District Council had ordered the applicants to remove the shepherd hut and all domestic items associated with the holiday let, remove fencing and all hardstanding.

Mr Dignan ruled the council’s period of two months was too short and allowed the applicants seven months to cease the change of use.