A new caravan and camping site will move forward in Wisbech St Mary following approval by Fenland District Council.
The decision, made in early August 2025, grants permission to convert existing paddocks and an orchard into a small-scale tourism site in the rural area of the Fens.
The approved plans cover approximately two acres of land off Bevis Lane and include provisions for a kitchen block, shower block, and stables.
According to the council’s planning officer report, the development is expected to bring economic value to the region while maintaining minimal impact on the surrounding landscape.
“The scheme is considered small scale but will enable the introduction of a viable and relevant land use which will contribute to the rural economy,” the report stated.
According to the Eastern Daily Press, it also noted that the project aims to establish “a sustainable and environmentally friendly rural tourism enterprise.”
The council imposed a condition ensuring that the site cannot be used for permanent residential occupancy, reinforcing its purpose as a seasonal or short-term accommodation offering.
Importantly for developers and outdoor hospitality operators, the report highlighted that no objections were received during the public consultation process, and the location was assessed to be at “relatively low risk” of flooding—an increasingly vital factor in rural land use planning.
This development aligns with broader trends in rural diversification, where landowners seek to tap into the growing demand for domestic tourism, camping, and caravanning.
For industry professionals, the Wisbech St Mary approval demonstrates how small-scale developments—especially those that emphasize environmental compatibility and local economic benefits—can gain planning permission in sensitive rural areas.
It also underscores the importance of clear land-use proposals and engagement with regulatory frameworks to navigate planning processes successfully.
This case may serve as a useful example for landowners and developers considering low-impact, small-footprint projects that can contribute to the tourism economy while aligning with sustainability goals.