£4,000-a-stay luxury spa holiday let near Wolverhampton hopes to stay in business after opening in 2023 without permission
A luxury spa holiday let which opened in a hamlet near Wolverhampton without planning permission is seeking consent to continue trading.
Oaken Spa in Oaken Lane, Oaken, near Codsall, opened in 2023 as a luxury holiday let for up to 10 people, charging upwards of £4,000 a stay.
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But it has been operating without planning consent, and Lee Holder is now seeking retrospective permission to continue trading.
Advertising for the property describes it as a 'stunning thatch cottage in the Staffordshire countryside, ideal for families and friends'.
It says the house is suitable for up to 10 people, and is equipped with an indoor pool, sauna and steam room, spacious games room and bar, with an outdoor kitchen complete with wood-fired pizza oven.
In a statement supporting the planning application, letting agent Travel Chapter said the business was a responsible operator which had proved popular with the people who had stayed there.
The company said more than 40 reviews had been left on its website, describing enjoyable stays.
"These reviews clearly demonstrate that guests are using the property exactly as intended, most frequently for multigenerational family gatherings, reunions, and milestone birthday celebrations," the agency said.
"Feedback consistently highlights that the property is well enjoyed, well managed, and well suited to the character of the local area."
It added that the agency was promoting the region's outdoor pursuits and tourist attractions, bringing positive economic benefits to nearby businesses and contributing to sustainable tourism within the area.
"Oaken Spa operates as a responsibly marketed, well-managed, high-quality holiday property that aligns with our company values, supports the local economy, and respects the needs of the surrounding community."
The company said the property owner had made it clear that the property was unsuitable for stag or hen parties.
The public is now being invited to have its say as part of the consultation process, before the plans are considered by South Staffordshire Council's planning department.
You can find out more about planning applications and planned roadworks where you live. Visit publicnoticeportal.uk.
