PLANS to build two shepherd’s huts on the Furness peninsula that will have ‘spectacular views’ over the Duddon Estuary have been given the green light.

Westmorland and Furness Council has approved proposals from Emma Knight for two huts to be used as holiday lets on Guards Farm in Kirkby-in-Furness to Westmorland and Furness Council as part of a farm diversification project.

According to planning documents, it is hoped revenue from the huts will replace income currently being received in Rural Payment Agency payments and Environmental Stewardship grants which are due to come to an end in 2024 and 2028 respectively.

The proposed huts would consist of an open-plan handcrafted kitchen, a three-piece bathroom at one end of the hut and a sleeping area with a double bed at the other end.

The design and access statement says: “The proposal is for use as a small holiday let. The site has spectacular views over the Duddon Estuary and provides an excellent location for tourists wanting to explore the South Lakes area. There are several public footpaths within the vicinity for tourists to explore on foot or by bike.

“The proposal will satisfy demand for holiday accommodation in the area and will benefit the local economy.”

A previous planning application for the same site was refused as the council stated the proposed building falls within flood zone 3 and the proposed use is ‘highly vulnerable’. The council said the submitted flood risk assessment failed to meet the requirements of national guidance.

The application received support from Kirkby Ireleth Parish Council who said ‘diversification of this nature is very much welcomed’.

The applicant states in planning documents the area has a ‘high probability’ of tidal and fluvial flooding but the finished floor level of the huts is proposed to be raised to tackle the issue.

The planning application was approved on May 7.