A planning application submitted to Powys County Council on April 17 seeks approval for the construction of three glamping units in the countryside near Presteigne, Wales.
The proposed development, located on land at Lower Rowley in Evenjobb, aims to cater specifically to astrotourists—travelers seeking opportunities to experience night skies and celestial events.
Applicants Lewers Firth and Bronwen Boulanger, who acquired the smallholding in August 2024, have proposed a change of use for the agricultural land, which currently consists of pasture for grazing sheep and areas of ancient woodland.
The planning, design, and access statement submitted by agents Crown & Canopy outlines that the development’s core concept revolves around astrotourism.
“The development of the units focus on the unique selling point of Astrotourism,” the statement notes.
“The site lies in an area of minimal light pollution making it ideal for this purpose. The design of the cabins is to provide a short-term accommodation option with carefully considered features to encourage and support those who wish to stargaze. Subsequently, measures have been taken to ensure minimal light pollution from the units themselves.”
Astrotourism has gained traction in the region since Presteigne and nearby Norton were officially designated as Wales’ first ‘Dark Sky Place’ in January 2024, according to Powys County Times.
This designation reflects the area’s suitability for night sky observation and reinforces the glamping project’s alignment with local tourism goals. The proposal follows the recent opening of ‘The Retreat’ at Rockbridge Country Holiday Park in Presteigne—a transparent viewing dome designed for stargazing.
According to the submitted statement, the glamping cabins would be temporary structures clad in timber with corrugated roofs, designed to complement the rural surroundings. In addition to the three raised units, the project includes landscaping, parking, and access via an existing entrance to Lower Rowley. The design accommodates up to six guests in total, minimizing the anticipated impact on the local road network.
The applicants emphasize that the initiative serves as a means of diversifying their small-scale farming operation.
“This planning application proposes a modest, small-scale glamping use that would provide diversification of the current farm operation to supplement the farm income and support the owners’ family,” the statement reads.
“This will allow a sustainable income with flexibility around family life, and a key aspect of the proposal is, following years of the land being heavily grazed, to rebuild natural habitats and share this beautiful land and nature with others.”
An economic impact analysis included in the application estimates that the development could contribute approximately £139,941 annually to the local economy, based on Powys County visitor spending data.
“The development will generate a healthy spend into the local economy based upon the relative connectivity to local service providers and outlets nearby, and the wider significant landscape attractions in the area.”
The application was scheduled for discussion during the May meeting of the Presteigne and Norton Town Council and remains under review by Powys County Council.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, this project illustrates how aligning accommodations with local natural assets—such as Dark Sky status—can offer a niche tourism experience while also supporting rural economic diversification.
By focusing on minimal environmental impact and targeted visitor appeal, similar models could inspire low-density, sustainable developments in other rural destinations.