Glamping site planned for Portland
Two fields could be turned into a sustainable 'glamp-site'
Two Portland fields could become a sustainable glamping site.
An application asks for permission to use the fields to the south of Sweet Hill Road, adjoining stables.
It comes from Mr Daniel Lees from Sweet Hill Farm who says the site would support active holidays on Portland, including the associated equestrian centre, with the site screened from any nearby public vantage points.
It is claimed that each pitch could add between £26,000 and £84,000 per season to the local economy.
Details provided by a planning agent say the accommodation would be provided in shepherd huts, yurts, bell tents and camping pitches for people to bring their own tents with no permanent structures on the fields. All of the units will be off-grid with solar panels on the roofs and wood burners with compost toilets.
Off season the huts, pods and toilet blocks and showers would be stored in a barn and the fields returned to grazing.
The application gives no exact number of units but says that they would be limited to maintain a rural ‘feel’ to the site with its views to Portland Bill and the lighthouse.
Said a statement from the agents:
"The scheme seeks to extend the offer of the riding stables by adding a sustainable, low-impact glamping and camping site, with the aim of connecting people to nature, and engaging them with the local environment.
"The proposal will provide high-quality accommodation, targeted towards active holidays including activities such as horse riding, walking, mountain biking, sailing, bird watching and climbing.
"The Portland neighbourhood plan states that it has been agreed by the Town Council that Portland’s natural focus should be on activity-holidays and adventure-seekers. The council support an approach to tourism which will make Portland an activity hub."
No cars would be allowed on the site with those using it having to park at the equestrian centre and walk in and out, although one of the two fields would be allowed to have camper vans.
Documents with the application suggest occupancy for 25-30 weeks of the year. It claims that each unit could contribute between £26,000 and £84,000 a year to the local economy.
Consultation on the proposals are open for public comment until 20 September.
By Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporter