RESIDENTS in Hemingford Grey have raised concerns about plans for an overhead-cable water ski centre for a lake in the village.

Almost 30 people have sent objections to Pidley-based Lakeside Lodge Golf Centre’s proposal for the lake, off Long Lane, saying it would ruin the village environment.

The company wants permission to install a cable that tows water skiers and wakeboarders and says the lake is already used informally for water skiing.

Esther Harrod, 61, of Weir Road, said: “The natural unspoilt beauty of Long Lane Lake, the habitat, the adjacent open fields and footpath, which runs parallel to the lake, are considered to be one of the last remaining rural settings in Hemingford Grey.

“It would be criminal to spoil this idyll with extreme, noisy water sports and ruin the current village environment.

“Just as important is the potential damage to wildlife as the lake is also part of the County Wildlife Site in Marsh Lane. One of our most precious annual visitors is several pairs of nightingales.

“We have to fight to keep what we’ve got left in the village because once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.”

The plans, as reported by The Hunts Post, have been submitted to Huntingdonshire District Council.

The golf club has also appealed against HDC’s decision to refuse previous plans for an overhead wire for cable-skiing, a two-storey boathouse, two holiday chalets and a caravan/campsite after receiving a petition with almost 400 signatures and 40 letters of objection, including one from MP Jonathan Djanogly.

INFORMATION: Details of the latest plans are available from HDC’s Pathfinder House in Huntingdon or via www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk