An organisation that supports farmers in Cumbria has pointed to a change in planning laws that could benefit the sector.
Planning laws normally allow ‘pop-up’ campsites to operate for a maximum of 28 days in a calendar year under permitted development rights, said The Farmer Network.
However, in England the rules were changed last June when COVID-19 lockdown restrictions were lifted, to allow them to open for 56 days. This rule has now been extended until the end of December.
Many farmers are interested in ‘pop-up’ campsites as a way of “dipping their toe in the water” of a farm tourism enterprise without significant investment.
National Parks are also keen to accommodate increasing numbers of visitors when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and to manage problems such as rough camping.
The 56- day rule does not include caravans or campervans. Only tents are allowed including bell tents and tepees.
Toilet and washing facilities must be provided and these can be hired if there are no facilities on the farm.
