Laver Leisure has submitted a planning application for Moneystone Park, near Whiston, Staffordshire to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council. The plans will transform the former Moneystone Quarry into a sustainable leisure development, open to visitors and the local community.
The proposed development offers 250 high quality lodges alongside a range of activities to suit all ages from cycling, climbing and other sports, to a network of nature trails, bridleways and footpaths. Subject to gaining planning consent the development could create around 250 new full time equivalent jobs, plus new jobs during construction and indirectly within the local area.
Since initial public consultation began in 2011, Laver Leisure have made a number of significant changes to the proposals, taking into account comments received from the local community. In line with the Churnet Valley Masterplan, the developers have reduced the number of lodges from 650 to 250 and are no longer proposing any new houses, space for touring caravans or a hotel.
Peter Swallow of Laver Leisure said: “After several months of public consultation, we have now submitted our planning application for Moneystone Park to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council. We are confident our proposals will deliver an excellent opportunity to transform a former worked quarry into an attractive and sustainable leisure development with an all year round offer which is open and accessible to the community, with something for everyone.”
“Currently, just 7% of Staffordshire’s 20 million annual visitors, stay overnight. Moneystone Park will promote a range of overnight and short stay holiday options for visitors, which will boost the local economy by providing another option to retain tourist spend in the area. By potentially providing 250 much needed new jobs, the development offers a range of employment opportunities helping to replace those jobs lost when the quarry closed.”
“Whatever your age, Moneystone Park will offer leisure facilities and activities to suit every visitor. A relaxing spa break, an adventurous weekend climbing and cycling, or just a break from the working week walking around the new and existing nature trails – Moneystone Park will cater for all.”
Subject to planning approval, Moneystone Park will provide new facilities which the local community will be able to take advantage of, including a farm shop, bar and restaurant, swimming pool, spa and gym and an accessible outdoor leisure offer.
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Moneystone Park