Marske Hall owner responds to concerns over future use

The owner of Marske Hall has rejected claims there have been planning breaches at the venue which local residents are worried will be used as a ‘party house’.

Marske and New Forest Parish Council has complained to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority over claims that planning rules have been broken while work has taken place at the hall’s stables.

In a statement issued to Richmondshire Today, owner Ian Morton denied that the development had gone against the current planning permission that had been granted.

He said: “These accusations are completely fabricated and defamatory.

“Marske Stables opened last Friday to its first guests with families making up 80 per cent of future bookings.

“The venue is clearly for those who want to enjoy a relaxing stay in this beautiful part of the Dales.

“This is evident as Marske Stables has teamed up with a number of local businesses to offer walking, cycling and other activity based holidays.”

Mr Morton said the stables had been “lovingly restored” and they had kept the original features.

“We have repointed all the original brickwork, restored the historic clocktower and even kept the original graffiti from 1788 for all to enjoy.

“We have worked closely with Heritage England and the senior planning enforcement officer to release all conditions and have discussed any changes on site with them.”

Mr Morton said the criticisms had been raised in previous meetings with the planners and had then been addressed.

“These issues include car parking, which we have increased substantially with now over 30 spaces.

“The internal doorways that have been raised as a concern, are a stipulation from building control as emergency exits from the first floor apartments can’t be from windows.

“In terms of the community facility, the previous owner removed the right to use this however Mr Morton has agreed to use part of the stables as an area for the community upon request.

“The local farmers access has also been agreed.”

Mr Morton said he would like to issue an open invitation to anyone who would like to visit the hall, view the work that has been completed and to talk about the future of the entire Marske estate.