More pop-up campsites expected as record numbers set to staycation in Devon
Council's in the region say we must follow a set of rules if we're to open up our own site
With 2021 set to be the year of the staycation, and with record numbers of visitors predicted to head to Devon over the coming months, councils are expecting plenty of ‘pop-up camping sites’ to be created.
The Government has passed legislation to allow temporary, pop-up campsites to open for up to 56 days this year – an increase on the usual 28 days – and pop-up campsites do not require planning permission.
However, councils across the county are reminding and advising the public that there are rules that have to be taken into consideration if you are thinking of opening up a pop-up campsite on your land.
- You can only accept tents.
- You can only place temporary facilities on your land.
- Please try and cut the grass as short as you possibly can.
- Everything must be removed after 56 days
- You’ll need to provide portable toilets, a hand washing station and a supply of water.
- If you have a private water supply that has not been certified for commercial use you should provide potable bottled water for your visitors. If you intend temporarily extending a mains water supply you will need to check this is acceptable with South West Water waterregs@southwestwater.co.uk
- You may need to put down some mats in gateways if the weather is wet and remove them after the campsite closes.
- You will need to consider how the rubbish from the site will be disposed of and arrange for this to be taken away by a licensed waste carrier.
- You need to risk assess your site which must bear relation to any relevant COVID restrictions. You will need to consider the risks on your land to help campers stay safe. Think about any information that you can provide for them via email or on a temporary notice board.
- You will need to manage the behaviour of visitors to avoid unreasonable disturbance through loud music etc.
- You must display a COVID test and trace QR code which you can download from GOV.UK.
- It is your responsibility to keep yourself up-to-date with the very latest COVID guidance for the hospitality industry
- Insurance can usually be provided by the insurer who insures your land for public liability. There is usually an additional charge for this.
Cllr Tony Leech, West Devon Borough Council’s lead member for health and wellbeing, said:
“We saw a number of pop-up campsites in West Devon last year and predict even more this year.
"Whilst this can be a welcome boost for many local businesses as tourists spend their money in our shops, cafes and pubs, it’s also important that the rules are followed. That way our camping visitors and local residents can all feel happy and safe.”
Cllr Jonathan Hawkins, South Hams District Council’s lead member for environmental health, added:
“Last year saw an increase in visitors sleeping under the stars in the South Hams in pop-up campsites. We’re expecting the same again this year, and hope it will again help to give our local businesses a much-needed boost as we welcome more tourists to eat, drink, stay and shop in our area.
"However, it’s also important that anyone planning a pop-up campsite follows the rules, to help keep everyone safe and ensure no nuisance is caused.”