A GARDEN in Seend is going to become a self-catering tourist site named Woody Copse after plans were approved by Wiltshire Council this week.

It includes a two-metre high wooden cabin mounted on wheels, with three bedrooms to accommodate up to six people, a dining room and kitchen plus parking spaces.

David Hawkins of Wych Elm in Seend Hill, who already runs nearby Lock Cottage as a holiday let, submitted the plans in December for the accommodation to be built at the half-acre wooded area in his back garden, which will also include a timber storage shed.

The initial plans were for three shepherd huts and two steel storage containers, but following objections from neighbours the plans were revised.

Seend Parish Council also objected to the proposal, they recommended Wiltshire Council refuse it as they had concerns about lack of pedestrian access, insufficient sewerage and fears it may increase traffic to the village. They also thought the design of the shepherd huts were not in keeping with the area.

However, Wiltshire Council approved it on the basis it would improve economic, social and environmental conditions of the area. They also said it complied with the National Planning Policy Framework.