Plans for a park in Measham for 64 luxury holiday lodges near the Ashby Canal have been withdrawn following a number of objections.

The scheme was scheduled to be close to the long-proposed new marina development on the canal.

But it was pointed out that North West Leicestershire District Council's own local plan does not permit developments which will affect the restoration of the Ashby Canal.

A site in Gallows Lane had been identified for the buildings, and an application was made last month to the District Council by Mrs Vicki Garland, from Ratcliffe Culey, near Atherstone.

The plan was for a change of use from the current agricultural land to a development of more than six hectares in size.

A planning statement issued with the application said there is already strong support for the development.

In the original application, 122 lodges were planned, but new documents explained that number has been 'significantly reduced' to 64 units 'to create a higher quality site with a lower density and enhanced green space and tree provision'.

However, the Inland Waterways Association pointed out that the application includes part of the protected restoration route of the Ashby Canal.

It also quotes the North West Leicestershire District Council's local plan which says: "Development which would prejudice the restoration of the Ashby Canal and its historic route, as identified on the policies map, or the provision of canal side facilities will not be permitted."

Measham Parish Council also raised concerns over the scheme saying: "Our main concern is that plot 12a on the attached plan is in fact reserved for temporary use for the construction of the Ashby Canal under the Transport and Works Act Order. 

"The artist's impression of the proposal shows that most of that site is likely to be landscaping, but some of the accommodation may just impinge on the site. 

"I have spoken to the applicant, and she has agreed that the area will be kept clear of any hard development. It would assist if this protection is included in the planning response. 

"Mention is made of the Marina, which is proposed as part of the future ongoing restoration of the Ashby Canal, but there is no further mention of the canal line, which borders the site. 

"There is now a recently created signed walking route from Measham to the navigable Ashby Canal at Snarestone, which would be of considerable benefit to users of the holiday lets. Some assistance in improving or maintaining this path would be appreciated, for mutual benefit."

Another objector felt that the B4116, directly opposite where the proposed access to site would be, was already a safety concern to road users.

Leicestershire Police also raised safety concerns.

Jubilee Farm Developments, close to the proposed holiday lodge site, also made a detailed set of objections to the District Council.