On 14 July 2020, the government published a statement encouraging local planning authorities to exercise their discretion in relation to planning conditions for caravan, campsites and holiday parks.

It sets out the approach local planning authorities should take to decision making for these businesses which were made temporarily vacant by Covid-19 business disruption. The statement also encourages local planning authorities not to undertake enforcement action which would unnecessarily restrict the ability of caravan, campsites and holiday parks to extend their open season.

The statement comes into effect on 14 July 2020 and will remain in place until 31 December 2022 unless superseded by a further statement.

All existing site licences and any conditions attached to them will remain in force. Local authorities could decide to alter any conditions attached to a licence to reflect any new planning requirements, but this will be subject to consultation with the owner who has a right of appeal against the decision.

The National Planning Policy Framework already emphasises that planning enforcement is a discretionary activity, and local planning authorities should act proportionately in responding to suspected breaches of planning control. Given the current situation, while local planning authorities must have regard to their legal obligations, they should not seek to undertake planning enforcement action which would unnecessarily restrict the ability of caravan, campsite and holiday parks to extend their open season.

For further information or assistance, please get in touch: e-mail: yvonne@daviesrural.co.uk or 07792761168.