For a number of years legislation has allowed temporary changes of use of land for a number of purposes up to 28 days per year without the need for full planning permission.  Part 4 of Schedule 2 of The Town & Country Planning General Permitted Development (England) Order details what is and is not permitted. 

This right has been well utilised by farmers and landowners during the summertime offering camping pitches.

In recent years, staycations have become more and more popular with the English Coastline and Countryside providing the perfect setting for a more affordable and environmentally friendly holiday.  This has given a much needed boost to the rural economy.

During the pandemic the provision was extended to 56 days which many farmers and landowners benefited from.  It reverted back to 28 days on the 31 December 2021.

In response to the above trend and after an extensive campaign by the CLA (Country Land and Business Association) the Government launched a consultation on potential changes to permitted development rights to further support temporary campsites.  The consultation also included the use of solar panels and film-making.

In a landmark decision laid before Parliament on the 5th July, the UK Government Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has extended the right to 60 days (for up to 50 pitches) across England and created a new Use Class for temporary campsites, namely ‘Class BC – Temporary Recreational Campsites'.  The use includes the provision for any ‘moveable' structure reasonably necessary for the purposes of the permitted use, such as toilet and waste disposal facilities, and extends to motorhomes and campervans.

The use is effective from the 26 July 2023 with the existing right to be removed from July 2024.  However, temporary siting of tents can still be erected for a period of 28 days if associated with a festival, along with motorhomes/campervans.

There is a process to follow if you would like to consider a temporary campsite which involves notifying the Local Planning Authority of your intention to operate for the 60 days prior to the start of the season.  Adequate toilet and waste disposal provisions need to be installed and if more than 42 consecutive days is intended, a camping licence would be required. 

Not all sites will benefit from permitted development rights, such as sites that comprise scheduled monuments, military explosive areas, sites which comprise listed buildings and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). 

Rural tourism is vital to the overall rural economy, so this decision is welcome news for farmers and landowners embarking on diversification projects, the rural hospitality industry and holidaymakers themselves.

Acorus has assisted a number of clients over the years to develop their sites and secure the future of their rural enterprises.  If you are considering a new project or are expanding on existing projects, contact Acorus for a no obligation discussion.