New proposals for a Surf the Turf' mountain boarding theme park are causing a stir among villagers at Priest Hutton, near Carnforth.

Villagers are furious because they feel their views have been totally ignored.

Surf the Turf is an outdoor attraction that allows people to go mountain boarding across farmers' fields.

The applicant, Markus Harvey, has submitted revised plans for the site, which is situated close to the A6070 road from Burton-in-Kendal to Carnforth.

Everyone at the latest meeting in the village hall on Friday (February 2) was in opposition to Surf the Turf, which people considered not to be a suitable amenity for the large number of tourists enjoying the quiet lanes, cycleways and paths of the picturesque area.

Priest Hutton parish clerk Tony Sunderland said villagers were upset that the planning authority had not taken action against the applicant who, they claimed, was operating without planning permission.

A statement from Lancaster City Council's planning department said that the application, which was first considered by the planning committee in June last year, had been delayed while a site visit and a request for amended plans to improve access had been submitted.

"It is true that the applicant has been operating for part of this period without consent," the statement said.

"However, the council does not normally take enforcement action while an application is under active consideration. In this case there is a serious possibility that the committee will be minded to grant planning permission so any such action in advance of their decision would not be appropriate."

Surf the Turf operator Markus Harvey said residents had been trying to scupper the plan, which would be a "friendly" way of diversifying the farm business.

"There's nothing for the kids to do in the area and we are offering them a safe place to come and play and learn new skills and meet new friends," he said.

"It's a good thing for the kids, youth and the area and it is bringing people to enjoy the countryside."

The revised proposal will go before the planning committee on Monday (February 19).