PLANS to convert barns at a medieval village so they can host weddings have been deferred for a site visit to take place.

The proposal, if approved, would see a change of use of the Tithe and Reeves barns to allow civil marriages and wedding events and went before the Vale's planning committee on Thursday (March 30).

But councillors decided to defer the plans so a site visit can take place.

The plan is part of the Vale council's plan to introduce commercial activities to Cosmeston Lakes Country Park to generate funds to ensure its future.

In January 2016, the council announced they were looking into opportunities and inviting tenders to provide activities at the park and weddings were among the ideas suggested.

If approved, it is anticipated that the site will host around 10 ceremonies a year and will be available seven days a week but that only one civil marriage event will take place at any one time.

The report states that it is anticipated that the majority of civil marriage events will take place between Friday and Sunday, between 9am and 5pm, with none held on bank holidays.

The organisation of any civil marriage events will be managed by Countryside services staff, with terms and conditions, including, the correct insurances, licensing and permissions are obtained; no equipment capable of producing amplified sound shall be used in a way to cause nuisance; only emergency vehicles shall be allowed into the area on which the event is taking place; and the parking of all vehicles, other than emergency vehicles, shall be restricted to designated parking places at the main car park and overflow car parks.

The application was called in by cllr Bob Penrose due to concerns over inadequate parking for those who attend functions, the functions would limit the opening time for the medieval village, noise of the functions disturbing local residents, that it will detract from tranquillity of the country park and the everyday operation of the medieval village and that the buildings proposed are not suitable for the commercial purpose applied for.

Objections to the application have been received from Cllr Garland, which relates to the proposal compromising the site as a visitor and tourist attraction, pressure on available car parking, nuisance to nearby residents, and safety issues.

Cllr Maureen Kelly-Owen has also raised the issue of security and proper use of the country park for all users.

A recommendation of approval has been made subject to conditions including implementation of the access improvements and that no wedding ceremonies take place on bank holidays.