PLANS to create 39 timber camping pods and an additional 65 pitches at Ffrith Beach have been approved.

Despite a wave of objections and a heated public meeting in February, members of Denbighshire County Council Planning Committee met today to give the application the green light.

Developer Noah Robinson is behind the proposals, which will see additional touring pitches, timber camping pods and a storage building built in Prestatyn.

Parking facilities will be provided for each touring caravan proposed and the majority of camping pods will have a dedicated parking space.

Concerns had been raised over how the plans would impact wildlife, the environment, site access and more.

Jack Jones, 92, who runs The White House by the Sea caravan park on Victoria Road, said: "The ones who are suffering, are the wildlife. God gave us the chance to look after our own. We look after wildlife in other countries. We have got to protect what is left.”

Mr Jones feared the plans would "bankrupt" him.

Officers had recommended the application for grant, subject to conditions.

Cllr Paul Penlington, Prestatyn North, said: "I didn’t object as I think it will be of benefit to the town - we are low on suitable sites for touring caravans and other holiday accommodation.

"The lease holder does maintain the existing caravan site to a very high standard, enabling him to increase his income will eventually result in investment in the main buildings in the site.

"This has been a contentious development as people have very fond memories of the site as it was many years ago. This development is far better than the current state of the site that has been there for many years.

"I have had discussions with Denbighshire County Council and I am confident they have a good working relationship with the tenant with a view to positive developments in the future."

A final report on proposals, presented to councillors, stated: "The principle of the development of tourism accommodation in this location is considered acceptable.

"It is considered there would be no adverse impact on the visual amenity of the area or local biodiversity. Flood Risk and Surface Water drainage impacts are also considered acceptable.

"It is not considered that the proposal would result in an adverse impact on the local highway network."