Despite objections, a viewing platform is set to be installed at a picturesque Lake District spot.

Following a consultation period, the Lake District National Park planning authority has given plans to create a viewing platform at Stanley Ghyll, Eskdale, the green light.

The proposal aims to provide a safe space for hikers to take in the natural beauty of the River Esk – but 11 nearby residents opposed the proposals.

Concerns raised by objectors included encouraging “overconfidence” in walkers and threatening their safety, views being spoilt by the man-made structure, and the opinion there was “no need” for the platform.

One concerned resident wrote: "This proposal seems to be aimed at a recent desire for taking selfies and Instagram moments – the drawings even show a person putting his/her arms up to be photographed by the other visitor.

"Eskdale and the surrounding hills has a multitude of dramatic places where such photos can be taken and the Authority should be encouraging visitors to explore them rather than focus on one place."

Another said: " I think this is a totally unnecessary construction and intrusion into a naturally beautiful area. Why ruin it with a man made platform?

"You don’t have to build on everything.

"This summer showed how the Lake District was abused with the amount of people leaving their detritus and showing disrespect to the countryside. Don’t add to it by building this platform.

"Don’t abuse this beautiful landscape with your ridiculous proposal, leave the gorge alone."

One letter of support was received, which said the viewing ledge would encourage more people to visit the area.

The applicant stated in the plans that a lot of thought has gone into how the platform could impact the environment, and said: “The aim is to have minimal impact, and if this is removed in the future it will not leave any impact on the surroundings.”

The platform will be made from mild steel, with a chassis that runs the full length of the structure, with mesh flooring and a bench.

This will be fixed to the cliff at two anchor points into the bedrock below ground level.

For more information, visit the Lake District National Park website.