Lake District planners are to visit White Cross Bay caravan site, on the shores of Windermere, to assess the impact of a scheme to replace existing timber jetties with floating pontoon ones in the southern marina.

While there they will also look at floating plastic pontoons that have already been positioned in the marina on the north side of the bay, where they have replaced timber jetties.

The development control committee had refused that application on the grounds that the pontoon jetties "would result in injury to the visual amenities of the locality by reason of their design and materials".

But an appeal was lodged against that decision, and the appeal was allowed, although the inspector applied a condition that the colour should be changed to one agreed (dark brown).

The new proposal is to replace the timber jetties at the southern marina with floating pontoon plastic jetties of the same form, design and construction as the new plastic jetties in the northern marina. They would be built with dark brown plastic panels for the walkways.

In the submitted scheme, the new jetties could accommodate 47 boats, but in amended plans this would be reduced as the applicant has agreed to remove the moorings to the southern side of the southernmost jetty to avoid a more sensitive ecological area.

The Friends of the Lake District pointed out that "timber jetties form part and parcel of the appearance and character of busy lake shore areas". Floating pontoons, with their massing and design, "cannot contribute in the same way and constitute an intrusive feature in such a sensitive location"

Planning officers agreed and recommended refusal. They said that: "Whilst the recent appeal decision is a material consideration, it is considered that the proposed development and its cumulative impact when combined with the approved development would be harmful to the distinctive character and appearance of the area."

Chief planning officer David Buylla said that, even though the inspector had allowed the other application - while rejecting the pink/biege colouring - "we shouldn't allow this one".

Dr Helen Jones said the existing floating jetties were "hideous".

Robert Bridson said he was "appalled" at the inspector's report, which ignored traditional values. He wondered if they could have a report from their buildings conservation officer on the historic importance of traditional jetties to the area, and that was agreed.

Meanwhile, as he did not know the site, Tony Johnston asked if they could see it. "Even if we refuse, a visit would add to our credibility", he pointed out.