New Temporary Campsite Regulations in Wales
Starting Monday, temporary campsites in Wales can remain open for up to 60 days per year under new regulations.
Previously, pop-up campsites were permitted to operate for 28 days annually without requiring a full planning application.
From Monday onwards, these sites may be open for up to 60 days, but new restrictions apply and a planning application will be necessary.
These changes currently do not affect campsites located within national parks.
Addressing Concerns About Disturbance
Last year, the Welsh Government launched a consultation on plans to increase the maximum number of days temporary campsites can operate from 28 to 60.
"There was general support" for the proposal, and the government acknowledged that businesses felt at a "competitive disadvantage" compared to England, where campsites could already open for up to 60 days.
However, the government also aimed to address concerns about "the disturbance caused by living near a temporary campsite site."
As a result, the proposal introduced a new type of development requiring temporary campsites to apply for planning permission to operate for 60 days.
The new restrictions specify that temporary campsites will not be permitted within 100 metres of a building owned by someone else.
Additionally, such campsites cannot open in designated flood zones or near listed buildings.
Temporary Campsites Allowed to Operate for More Than Double the Previous Time
Popularity of outdoor holidays close to home is increasing.
Concerns have been raised about the potential loss of thousands of jobs due to "harsh" holiday accommodation regulations.
Following the consultation, the previous Welsh Government announced the "first phase" of the new regulations, effective from 1 June.
During this period, temporary campsites located on land within a national park, an area of outstanding natural beauty, or a World Heritage Site will continue under the 28-day allowance.
Landowners must also agree on vehicle access procedures and waste water management with their local council.
While the new legislation is being phased in, all temporary campsite operators must comply by 1 September.
Harri Roberts’ Experience Running a Temporary Campsite
Harri Roberts, 25, from Aberdyfi in Gwynedd, works on his family farm and also serves as a firefighter.
For two years, he has run a temporary campsite near Aberdyfi. The site is within the Snowdonia National Park area, so the new changes will not affect him until September.
A house belonging to another person is located close to the gate leading to the field where the campsite is situated.
Harri stated he has tried to
"keep within the guidelines"regarding maintaining a 100-metre distance between the campsite and someone else's property.
"Just by the gate is this house - so I've done things so that people can't park or camp there," he said.
"It's just over 100 metres from here where people camp.
"They're worried that the gate is so close to their house, but it's a farm gate anyway and has been there for years, and I can't move it anywhere else."
Plans for the Campsite's Future
Harri added he hopes to obtain permission to open for 60 days in the future and that the campsite provides income helping him remain in his native area.
"I have lots of other plans for the campsite - for example, the road is a bit bumpy but if I want to spend money on the campsite I will have to get planning permission, so I will do that anyway."
These changes were introduced by the previous Labour Welsh Government.
The new Welsh Government, led by Plaid Cymru, stated that the recently appointed cabinet will "set their priorities soon" and will "focus relentlessly on doing what is best for Wales."
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