MORE than 450 people turned out to find out more about plans to build 40 new homes and a chain hotel in a Lake District town.

The deadline has now closed for feedback on draft proposals for the Borrans Road project in Ambleside. 

Stoford Developments, which is working in partnership with Home Group and Premier Inn, hosted two exhibitions at the town’s Kelsick Centre on July 31 and August 1. All responses received will now be analysed and used to shape the next stage of the plans.

Tony Nash who is leading the proposals for Stoford Developments, said: “The consultation and the public exhibitions have given us a great opportunity to talk to people about the proposals, to get their views and to help us with ideas for making the scheme even better. 

“We’re extremely grateful to everyone who took the time to take part and we’ll now be reviewing all of the feedback from the consultation, together with other technical assessments, to see how and where we can improve the draft designs.”  

An initial review of the feedback shows that views on flooding, traffic and access, and the link between the proposed homes and the hotel were among the most frequently raised points. 

Stoford Developments is planning further discussions with the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) over the coming weeks as an additional way to ensure that the draft plans are the best they can be. 

Mr Nash said: “We’ve had some strong and constructive views during the consultation, and voices for and against the proposals. 

“Our task now is to present the best possible planning application which matches the Council’s aspirations in its planning policy for Ambleside and presents a positive and deliverable way to provide new homes, jobs and investment into the town.”

Stoford Developments anticipates submitting a planning application towards the end of the year.