The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s development management committee has approved plans to diversify a National Trust campsite by introducing seasonal accommodations for camper vans and glamping pods. The campsite, located at Gupton Farm near Freshwater West, currently operates under a National Trust exemption certificate allowing for five camper vans and 45 tents on its 4.5-hectare site.
According to a report by Herald Wales, the new proposal seeks to formalize the existing operations by allowing for greater flexibility in accommodation types while maintaining a maximum capacity of 100 people across 50 pitches per night. The application permits the seasonal placement of five glamping pods and 20 camper vans without increasing overall occupancy levels.
The glamping pods will be free-standing structures that do not have permanent utility connections. They are scheduled to be removed from the site during the winter months of December through February. The planning report emphasized that these accommodations are designed to be seasonal and reversible, thereby minimizing environmental impact.
Planners noted previous concerns regarding the proposed scale and sensitivity of the site but were satisfied with the modifications made in the new application. The revised proposal included significant landscape and biodiversity enhancement measures while ensuring there would be no increase in overall occupancy levels.
The application was ultimately approved with a strong majority from the committee, reflecting a positive step toward diversifying accommodation types in a sustainable manner.
Madeleine Havard, chair of the authority, voiced her support for the seasonal aspect of the proposal and highlighted its potential benefits for local campervan management. The committee’s decision demonstrates the feasibility of expanding accommodation options without compromising the integrity of the National Park.
Source: moderncampground.com