A 98-FEET-long rope bridge hanging more than 100 feet above a coastal ravine to allow holidaymakers to reach a secluded West Somerset beach and provide an escape route for anybody trapped by the tide, has won planning approval at the second attempt.

Baker’s Leisure Ltd, which owns St Audries Bay Holiday Club, near Watchet, reapplied for permission for the bridge which will span a densely wooded valley known as Perry Gully, for holidaymakers to walk to the sea in St Audries Bay.

The bridge and a new track across two fields will replace a steep flight of steps which was closed last year after becoming unstable and unsafe.

Turning down the application last September, Somerset planners said a lack of ecological information prevented them from assessing the potential impact of the proposed development on biodiversity and protected species.

There was also a failure to comply with planning policies.

Reversing its decision last week, the planning authority said a subsequent ecological assessment had shown the bridge would not cause any significant harm to the ecological features of the area.

It had also been confirmed the track connecting the bridge would not be part of a public right of way and will remain a private access for holiday park guests only.

Planning officer Briony Waterman said: “The proposal for a bridge and path is considered acceptable in principal as it benefits an existing tourism provision.

“It is therefore considered that the need has been explained.”

Previously, planning agent Tim Teuber, of ARA Architecture, for the applicants, said the drop to the beach was about 115 feet and the new route would allow a more gently sloping access.

The new path would cross two agricultural fields separated by the gully over which a rope bridge would be installed.

He said the holiday firm had reached agreement with two local farmers for people to be able to use a track over their fields.

Mr Teuber said the new route to and from the beach would also help with safety for anybody who became cut off by the sea.

He said: “The incoming tide at St Audries Bay can catch some people out, resulting in them being cut off.

“This applies to both staying guests and the general public.

“Providing access off the beach to a place of safety will benefit everybody.”

Mr Teuber said visually, the new rope bridge would be completely screened from public vantage points due to its location and the natural screening from the surrounding woodland.

The holiday park owners had looked at bringing the steps safely back into use but uncertainty over the stability of the cliffs meant it was not feasible.

Mr Teuber said: “The proposed new footpath and rope bridge is a safer alternative with a gentler slope down to the beach along an existing track.

“Improving and reinstating access to St Audries Bay beach and coastline will enhance the park itself and bring new customers and prestige to the area.”