A proposal to develop up to three glamping pods at a farm near Prees in north Shropshire has been refused, with the local planning authority raising concerns about the site’s location and the lack of evidence that the development would form part of an established tourism enterprise.
Park Coppice Farm in Lower Heath, just outside Prees, is used to breed and rear Blacknosed Valais sheep. P Rodrigues submitted an application to diversify the agricultural business by introducing three glamping pods on a small section of the farm for tourist accommodation.
The application was presented as a way to combine accommodation with an interactive rural experience centered on the farm’s sheep. Jack Bridgett of Peter Richards & Co. said the applicant had researched the proposed diversification and wanted to provide visitors with an opportunity to engage with the animals.
“The applicant has undertaken extensive research into the proposed diversification enterprise and affording visitors a unique experience,” Jack Bridgett, of Peter Richards & Co, told the Whitchurch Herald.
“Having invested in breeding Valais Blacknose sheep, the applicant intends to offer visitors a petting experience.
“The applicant is hopeful of appealing to visitors who are seeking out interactive rural experiences including children with special education needs/ neurodiverse tendencies who will benefit safe interaction with animals.
“There are good opportunities for visitors staying at the site to explore the wider Shropshire area without reliance on the private car should they wish.”
The proposal received two public representations during the planning process, with one supporting the development and one objecting to it.
Garry Whittle supported the application, arguing that the proposed glamping operation could provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the countryside while contributing to the surrounding economy.
“I live locally in this area and I think that a glamping site would definitely give a good insight to people visiting this area,” said Garry Whittle.
“I would like to think having this glamping site would give people a real sense of being with nature, seeing spectacular views and able to experience the amazing local attractions like Hawkstone Follies. This could also bring revenue to local businesses such as local pubs and restaurants as well as local attractions.”
Ruth Dickinson objected to the proposal, stating that the land had traditionally been used for livestock grazing and silage production and should continue to serve an agricultural purpose.
“The land in question has historically always been used for livestock grazing and the production of silage, and should remain as such.
“In addition, I believe the proposed location is wholly unsuitable for tourism accommodation.”
The application was subsequently assessed by Shropshire Council planning officer Mared Rees-Jones, who also recommended against the proposal. The council’s assessment focused on the site’s relationship with existing settlements and services, as well as whether the application demonstrated a sufficient connection between the proposed accommodation and a viable farm diversification operation.
“The site is located in open countryside and is not close to or within a settlement, with there being very limited services and facilities in close proximity,” she said.
“The proposal does not form part of an established or viable tourism enterprise where accommodation is required, and little information has been submitted to confirm that the proposal represents a farm diversification scheme.”
The decision highlights several considerations that can affect rural accommodation proposals beyond the potential demand for glamping. For agricultural operators considering diversification, planning authorities may assess whether the proposed tourism use is demonstrably linked to an existing business, whether the site is appropriately located, and whether sufficient evidence has been provided to establish the need for accommodation in that particular setting.
For campground, caravan park and glamping operators looking to develop accommodation on agricultural land, the case also illustrates the importance of addressing planning policy at the application stage.
Evidence of the existing enterprise, the operational relationship between the accommodation and farm activities, anticipated visitor demand, access to services, and the potential economic contribution to the surrounding area can all help establish the broader case for a diversification project. However, such evidence does not guarantee approval where a proposal conflicts with local planning policies governing development in the countryside.
