A UNIQUE attraction in south Cumbria has finally had its next stage of planning confirmed after years of delays.

Couple Daniel and Dee Ashman who own eco-tourism business, Predator Experience near Cartmel, will now be able to fulfill their dreams of improving visitor facilities at their site in Ayside.

After intense public enquires, coupled with five years of planning difficulty, the micro business’ planning issues have finally been brought to a close by the National Planning Inspectorate.

Mrs Ashman said: “We’ve not been able to take the business forward in the last five years and have got so used to throwing everything we have both emotionally and financially into fighting for our survival.

“This whole process has been really damaging for us and the sad fact is we’ve become better known in the local area for our planning woes than for the range of natural experiences we offer.”

The popular visitor attraction, which has featured on BBC’s Countryfile and the BBC Travel Show, is the only place in the country where people can enjoy unique ‘walking with wolves’ experiences with wolf hybrids in the Lake District countryside.

Other interactive experiences include flying golden eagles from the top of Lake District fells, going on Hawk Walks, and learning about the crucial roles predators play in the bio-diversity system and in supporting eco-tourism.

Up to five new jobs will be created and the development is expected to bring around £1.1m into the local Cumbrian economy each year – more than double the amount the attraction currently generates.