Planning for Glamping Pods on Agricultural Land

As glamping grows in popularity, many landowners in the UK are exploring opportunities to vary their income by introducing glamping pods. These luxury glamping units cater to a growing demand for unique, nature-based holiday accommodation. However, changing your land for this purpose requires careful consideration of planning regulations.

Understanding the planning process and potential challenges is crucial for ensuring a successful glamping project venture. At Collington Winter, our consultants can assist you in meeting planning permission requirements in order to ensure that your project is successful.

Is planning for glamping pods on agricultural land required?

Yes, glamping pods typically require planning permission on farming land in the UK. This is because the installation of glamping pods typically involves a material change of use of the land from farming to leisure or tourism. This falls outside the scope of permitted development rights.

Key considerations for planning permission: 

Type of structure: The nature of the glamping pods (e.g., permanent, semi-permanent, or movable structures) can influence the planning requirements. Even temporary or movable pods usually require permission because their use changes the land’s purpose.

Local planning policies: Local authorities have specific policies regarding rural land use. Applications are assessed against these policies to ensure developments align with local priorities. This can include preserving the countryside or encouraging sustainable tourism.

Environmental and visual impact: Authorities will evaluate the impact of the pods on the surrounding environment. This includes key factors such as biodiversity, landscape aesthetics, and nearby communities.

Access for the pods: Considerations include road access, parking, water supply, drainage, and waste disposal. Any new infrastructure needed to support the glamping pods will factor into the planning decision.

Permitted development exceptions: Some temporary structures or uses of land for camping may fall under permitted development rights for limited periods (e.g., 28 days under the General Permitted Development Order). However, these are unlikely to cover glamping pods intended for long-term or year-round use.

Obtaining planning for glamping pods on agricultural land

Obtaining full planning permission for glamping sites on farming land in the UK involves a structured process.

Pre-application Research: Before submitting a planning application, it is essential to conduct research. Obtain some pre-application advice and understand the local planning policies of your local council. Engage with planning consultants or professionals experienced in the local area planning process to guide you.

Pre-application advice: Engage with the local planning authority early to understand specific requirements and potential challenges.

Submit a planning application: Include details such as site plans, environmental assessments, and a full detailed business plan.

Compliance with regulations: Ensure adherence to broader planning regulations, such as those concerning conservation areas or protected landscapes, if applicable.

Decision: Based on the assessment, the local planning authority will make a decision to grant or refuse planning permission. They may impose specific conditions if permission is granted. 

How can Collington Winter assist?

At Collington Winter, our consultants are fast-paced problem solvers. We work with clients to help them obtain formal planning approval for their projects. We provide a range of ecological services to help our clients to identify whether there may be any ecological issues with their proposal plans when applying for planning permission.

We meet the needs of developers, whilst ensuring positive outcomes for wildlife. We believe that an early consultation and in-depth knowledge of ecological best practice is the best way to improve your chances at obtaining planning permission and ensuring your project is a permitted development.

We can comment on planning applications and identify any mitigation measures that may need to be taken if any ecological constraints are found. If you are looking to apply for planning permission or start a glamping business, please do not hesitate to get in touch.