Adding value to caravan sites

Greenslade Taylor Hunt looks at how caravan site operators in the South West can use the planning system to add value, as domestic tourism remains strong following the post-pandemic staycation boom and competition between sites increases.

Occupancy conditions: many sites still carry older holiday occupancy conditions restricting the season or length of stay. Some councils now allow year-round use, provided caravans are genuinely used for holidays and not as a main home, so operators may be able to seek more flexible terms.

Switching touring pitches to statics: demand for static caravan ownership has risen, helped by better products and more generous conditions. The firm warns it is a misconception that touring pitches can always be converted without permission, as works such as concrete bases or changes to roads and parking may count as operational development. Many councils are nonetheless supportive, recognising the need for parks to evolve and the benefit of fewer towed caravans on rural roads, although landscape impacts will be weighed.

Extensions and facilities: sites at capacity may consider expanding, subject to highways, access, biodiversity, drainage and landscape considerations. New facilities such as a pool or restaurant can help a site stand out but may also require permission.

Certificates of Lawfulness: parks that have operated for 10 years or more without planning permission will generally have become lawful and immune from enforcement. A Certificate of Lawfulness, backed by evidence of the use, formalises this. It may be needed because the council requires it before supporting further development, because establishing a large lawful pitch number strengthens future applications, because buyers will expect proof when a site is sold, or because enforcement officers request one.

In each case, the firm recommends early advice from an experienced planning consultant.

Source: Greenslade Taylor Hunt, original article (20 May 2025)