Controversial plans for a campsite at the Upper Thames Sailing Club in Bourne End have been given the green light.

The club received consent to change the use of a field for camping for up to 28 days a year for sailing events.

The club wants to buy the 600 square meter plot, which is located next to a field it already owns, and now has permission to fence off the land.

Planning officers said: “The land will not increase the club’s usual activities or generate any additional traffic.”

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However, a string of local people objected to the plans, including Mrs Dilys Barratt of Coldmoorholme Lane.

She claimed her ‘small’ road was already clogged with the cars of ‘walkers, swimmers, sailors, paddle boarders, boaters and nature lovers who flock to this area’.

She added: “Adding to this by encouraging more traffic, more vehicles, campervans and caravans for 28 days of the year seems utter madness.”

Founded in 1884, Upper Thames Sailing Club boasts 400 members and is located on a mile-long stretch of the River Thames between Bourne End and islands below Marlow Lock.

In 1893, Queen Victoria presented the prestigious club with a challenge cup for first class boats.