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The government announced an extension of permitted development rights for campsites on July 5, increasing it from 28 days to 60 days per year.
Taking effect on July 26, the decision allows landowners to set up temporary campsites for up to 60 days without applying for planning permission, provided they do not install more than 50 pitches. However, in all cases the Council must be notified of the intended activity and land that fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3 will require prior approval. Additionally, the extension only applies to tents, motorhomes and campervans.
While the new PDR is expected to aid struggling rural communities, there are several provisions to keep in mind. The extension does not allow for sites to be set up in areas that consist of listed buildings, Sites of Specific Scientific Interest, scheduled monuments, military explosive areas and safety hazard areas. However, the government have allowed the new PDR to cover National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a welcome latitude that is likely to attract more tourists.
In an effort to help rural communities recover from the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government first extended the right to set up temporary campsites in the summer of 2020, allowing farmers and landowners up to 56 days without planning permission. However, this ended in December 2021. Citing Pitchup.com, the South West Farmer reports that the temporary campsites resulted in a £25 million boost to the economy. As more tourists visited rural areas, more money flooded into local businesses. While nearly £10 million was spent on pitch fees and £2.9 million on firewood and local produce, the majority of money went to local pubs, restaurants and shops.
“This expansion of permitted development rights is an exciting opportunity for landowners with an interest in generating income from tourism,” said Alister Smith, head of Planning and Design at Stags. “In effect, the temporary measures introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic are being made permanent, albeit with some additional red tape in the form of the annual notification process. However, the potential economic boost is a thrilling prospect for many, especially with the cost-of-living crisis afflicting individuals across the country.”
For advice regarding setting up temporary campsites under the new amendment, please contact the Planning and Design team by emailing planning@stags.co.uk or calling 01392 439046
