The Isle of Wight could soon see more glamping, camping and caravanning sites opening up thanks to a change in planning law.
The season for pop-up camping has now more than doubled, offering enterprising landowners a vital lifeline for their diversification ambitions.
Prior to last month, there was a 28-day limit on operating temporary sites for glamping, campervans and motorhomes. Now, the permitted development rights last a total of 60 days. This means that landowners can open up their gates for a more substantial and worthwhile period, such as the whole of July and August to cover the busy Summer period.
The new regulations, which apply to England only, are conditional on there being no more than 50 pitches, and having toilets and waste disposal systems in place. Only tents and motorhomes/campervans are allowed under the rules, not towable touring caravans.
Landowners who already operate pop-up camping sites are not required to seek extra planning permission, but they must notify councils of the opening dates in advance.
It is thought that locals are already taking advantage of the change in law with a new camping site sighted in Brading this month, for example.
But with more landowners now set to take advantage of the commercial opportunities, a rural insurance broker is urging them to be aware of the risks.
William Nicholl of Lycetts has said:
“Glamping will inevitably involve members of the public setting foot on private land. Health and safety risk assessments, along with measures and procedures to ensure a safe environment, are therefore essential. Public liability is also a must, and insurers may request site inspections to ensure quality standards and requirements are being met.
“Furthermore, a longer glamping season may see landowners taking on staff, so Employers’ Liability cover must be in place.”
why go to that over priced dump when you have all uk. most shops have shut down the towns are rundown dumps its full of drug and drunk drivers
Bring it on
It would be good for the island
More out of control pets, kids , bbq fires, noise and rubbish strewn across more of our precious but rapidly disappearing wildlife’s habitats from those low end poor working class families who can’t afford a proper holiday.