Last week, Parliament amended Permitted Development rights to allow landowners/farmers the opportunity to temporarily use land as a recreational campsite for up to 60 days in any calendar year. This Permitted Development right comes into force on 26th July 2023.
The Government consulted on the new Permitted Development rights in the spring as a reaction to renewed demand for domestic holidays, where holiday makers are seeking to book holidays to explore the amazing coastlines, rivers, moors, countryside, villages and towns that we have to offer.
Added to this, since the country faces new economic challenges, the Government has recognised the importance of supporting the local tourism industry and to encourage as many people as possible to stay in the UK, and to benefit from memorable domestic holidays.
The new Permitted Development rights require the provision of toilet and waste disposal facilities and the landowner must notify the Local Planning Authority in writing before the commencement of development in each calendar year to ensure that it meets the Permitted Development rights.
There are a few exceptions of where the Permitted Development right is not permissible, including the site of a Scheduled Monument, a Safety Hazard Area, Military Explosive Area, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and the site of a Listed Building.
Whilst many Local Planning Authorities give great weight to sustainability, it is good to hear that the economic situation of the country – and particularly the South West where agriculture and tourism are the two biggest industries and employers – is being taken into account.
