Solent Rescue seeking consent to replace its lookout station

Solent Rescue, an independent organisation based at Lepe Country Park, has submitted a planning application to the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA).

The volunteer life-savers want to replace their existing building with a slightly larger lookout post on the same site.

Alexis McEvoy, a Conservative councillor for South Waterside, has written to the NPA to voice her support for the £7,000 scheme.

She said: "Solent Rescue is a highly-trained, fast response search and rescue unit with the ability to assist on land and sea.

"It has been operating entirely with volunteers for nearly 50 years. It's a not-for-profit organisation and a vital facility on this part of the coastline."

Cllr McEvoy said the volunteers needed an uninterrupted view of the Solent and described their current location as "ideal".

She added: "The new unit is only slightly larger than the old lookout, is relatively unobtrusive and anaesthetically more pleasing."

Solent Rescue, which occupies a cliff-top site near Lepe Visitor Centre, unveiled plans to upgrade its "rusting" lookout station in 2018.

Speaking at the time a spokesman said: "The lookout is the hub of the unit. It provides communication and navigation assistance to the lifeboat crew.

"It also offers a good vantage point over the beach and foreshore, ensuring the public feel safe knowing they have members of the team looking out for them too, not just on the water."