Criticism of New Welsh Pop-Up Campsite Regulations
Owners of pop-up campsites and accommodation providers have expressed strong criticism of forthcoming regulatory changes in Wales, describing them as "unworkable" and "ridiculous".
Starting in June, landowners will be permitted to operate pop-up campsites for up to 60 days annually, aligning with England's allowance and increasing from the current 28-day limit.
However, the revised framework, introduced by the previous Welsh government, imposes restrictions on locations where pop-ups can be established. Some stakeholders in the tourism industry argue that these limitations mean a "significant part of Wales" will not benefit from the changes.
The current Welsh government stated that its newly appointed cabinet would soon outline their priorities and maintain a "relentless focus on doing what's best for Wales."
Dan Yates, founder of the outdoor accommodation booking platform Pitchup, commented on the concept of "permitted development"—which allows operations without planning permission—saying it has become "a misnomer in Wales."
"This is because the changes are fraught with hoops you have to jump through," he said, "which deters a lot of people from even bothering."
Background on Pop-Up Campsite Regulations
Under current regulations, landowners in Wales may operate pop-up campsites for up to 28 days per year without requiring planning permission.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Welsh government temporarily increased this allowance to 56 days.
In 2023, the rules reverted to the pre-pandemic 28-day limit.
One couple, who had aspired to run a pop-up campsite and petting farm, chose to sell their property and relocate to England, where the limit is 60 days.
Consultation and Proposed Changes
Last year, the Welsh government initiated a consultation on plans to raise the limit to 60 days. It noted that this suggestion had been "broadly supported" previously and acknowledged that some businesses felt at a "competitive disadvantage" compared to England.
However, the government also aimed to address concerns about "the disruption caused by living next to a pop-up camping site."
The proposal introduced a new type of permitted development requiring pop-up campsites to apply for permission to operate for 60 days.
Sites would be prohibited within a 100-metre "buffer" zone of any building not occupied by the site owner. Additional exclusions include certain flood zones and areas near listed buildings.
Implementation of New Rules
Following the consultation, the government announced the "first phase" of the new regulations, effective from 1 June.
During this phase, pop-up campsites located within national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB), or world heritage sites will remain subject to the 28-day limit.
Landowners must also coordinate vehicle access and wastewater management plans with their local council.
While the legislation is initially being phased in, all pop-up campsite operators will be required to comply by 1 September.
Industry Concerns Over Restrictions
Dan Yates expressed that although the Welsh government has emphasized the headline figure of 60 days, the detailed provisions mean this allowance will not apply to a large portion of Wales.
"If you are unfortunate enough to be in a flood zone 2 or 3, which in England they think is perfectly OK as long as you seek prior approval, the permitted development right is completely removed in Wales," he said.
"It is unworkable and damaging," Yates added, noting that pubs would be "really disadvantaged" because the 100-metre buffer prevents them from setting up temporary campsites near their venues.
"It is a ridiculous situation and one that will only make things worse for pubs, farmers, landowners, local councils, holidaymakers and everyone else involved with the issue."
Case Studies from the Sector
Caroline Roberts, who has operated a pop-up campsite and van pitches at Pant Y Barcud, Carmarthen since 2021, found it more "cost-effective" to pursue a permanent site operating for a six-month season due to costs such as insurance.
She applied for planning consent from Carmarthenshire council in March 2023, but the application was denied. A council spokesperson confirmed the refusal was based on concerns that "intensification of use would give rise to highway safety concerns."
Roberts fears this decision may prevent her from operating a pop-up site under the new rules, describing the council's approach as "desktop analysis" without any site visits.
Mark Rutherford, a farm owner running Camp Llandudno in Conwy county, is also apprehensive about the impact of the new regulations, as his main field lies within a flood zone.
"[It] effectively means we can't run half of the camp," he said.
"You can't make blanket rules because not all situations fit in a box. We don't flood ever, and certainly don't in the summer when we run our pop-up camp."
"I totally understand the desire to protect people," Rutherford added, "but my business has never had an issue in four years of operating."
"Landowners in flood zones should be able to provide additional information to local planning authorities, to allow them to make an educated decision."
