FAMILIES fear their village could be turned into "Blackpool" after plans were submitted to double the use of a campsite.

North Dales LLP is seeking permission to transform Bank House Farm and its adjoining outbuildings, in Hulme End, into seven self-catering units, a reception and shop.

The proposal also includes 76 new caravan or tent pitches.

Now angry residents fear their sleepy hamlet will be overrun with noisy tourists during the March 1 to October 31 holiday season.

Jane Powell, from Hulme End, said: "The scale of this proposed development is completely out of proportion to the size of the village. No one would consider building 70-odd houses on the edge of such a hamlet – how is a caravan site with 76 pitches any different?"

Bob Adams, who lives in the village with his wife Bess, said: "These proposals would have a major impact on the scenic beauty of the Manifold Valley.

"We are personally affected by this, but feel that the impact on the area overrides even personal views."

North Dales LLP has run a campsite and caravan park in three fields off Mill Lane since June 2007. The company has permission to use 30 pitches in the week, 60 at weekends and 100 on bank holidays.

The new scheme, if approved, would include 51 hard standing caravan pitches and 25 grassed pitches. The applicants have asked that all 76 pitches be available throughout the whole week.

The plans also include dividing the farmhouse into three holiday units and converting a barn to provide four self-contained holiday units. A new structure would be put up for a shower and toilet facilities.

A concrete building would be converted to provide storage and a suspended floor would also be installed to create a reception, office and shop.

A new entrance to the 14-acre site would also be built.

A document supporting the application states: "The proposal will enhance the opportunities for tourists to stay overnight in the district."

However, villagers have already met with senior planning officials from Peak District National Park Authority to outline their objections.

Roger Cannon said: "Hulme End is a small hamlet and we do not want it turned into a Blackpool. Residents have raised concerns over another shop being opened, the increase in traffic, along with noise and lighting."

The application comes at the same time residents have been fighting to save the village store after Hulme End Visitors Centre opened. Councillor Jason Hails, who represents Hulme End on Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, said: "The buildings should be used for affordable housing for local people."