Plans for a new new luxury glamping site with a heated swimming pool and petting zoo have been submitted.

Fifield Lodge in School Lane, Borden, near Sittingbourne wants to offer the best glamping experience in the county.

It is adding four new pods - including proposals for six-, four- and two-bed pods – made out of timber to its site which also has existing accommodation known as Alpaca Lodge.

Alongside the bed each pod will have recycling, a cycle store, shower and toilet, a communal kitchen block and a small area of decking out front.

Found just off the A249 Sittingbourne and close to the Isle of Sheppey and Rainham the proposed glamping site is being billed as perfect for couples, family and friends wanting short breaks and weekends a way.

Party groups will not be allowed to book.

Each pod will be spaced 12m apart to improve privacy, help social distancing and stop any noise problems, as well as having one parking space allocated to it.

'It will be beneficial for local tourist attractions, restaurants and businesses...'

In a design statement the applicant said: "At the moment, there is little presence in the borough of Swale area offering this kind of luxury pod accommodation giving guests exclusive facilities and unique offerings with a heated pool and petting experience with a variety of animals on site.

"We feel the site would be providing a positive alternative for visitors to the area."

Visitors will be able to take advantage of the site's nearby farm attraction and interact with alpacas, pigs, chickens and other animals.

To avoid overbooking or noise problems the site operator will restrict bookings so that no more than 10 people are booked per night.

It intends to be a "peaceful and relaxing treat" for visitors.

Applicant Tina Green thinks the addition of the glamping site will help tourism and other businesses in Sittingbourne.

The design statement concluded: "The proposed glamping site will provide a new and exciting accommodation option to the Sittingbourne area.

"Demand for this type of accommodation is high throughout the country, which has also been shown to be true of other glamping sites within the UK.

"This development will increase footfall for local businesses and through correct marketing, should increase the length of time tourists remains in the area.

"It will be beneficial for local tourist attractions, restaurants and businesses."

The planning application revealed the development will create one full-time and one part-time job as well as working alongside a number of local services, including taxis, shops pubs and restaurants.

View the plans at here with reference 21/503049/FULL.

Read more: All the latest news from Sittingbourne