New permitted development right has recently been introduced in England to make it easier for farmers and landowners to offer temporary camping facilities as a form of diversification.
The new Class BC permitted development right allows for the temporary use of land as a recreational campsite for up to 60 days per calendar year without requiring full planning permission. This was previously limited to 28 days (with the exception of the pandemic where it was increased temporarily).
However, campaigners had been lobbying for a permanent increase in the limit, arguing that putting in place the necessary infrastructure for a 28-day season is often not financially viable.
The new right, which took effect from 26 July 2023, allows for sites to accommodate up to 50 tents, motorhomes or campervans.
The landowner is required to provide campers with on-site toilet and waste disposal facilities and can use ‘any moveable structure reasonably necessary for the campsite use’.
Landowners must also notify, in writing, their local planning authority before they open for the season. This mist show a site plan showing toilet and waste disposal facilities and must also provide dates the campsite will be in use.
Prior approval will be required if the site is located within Flood Zone 2 or 3, so the Environment Agency can be consulted, and warning and evacuation plans agreed.
The new permitted development right will not apply to land within the curtilage of a listed building, Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or scheduled monument.
For any further information regarding this or to set up a campsite yourself, please do get in touch.