A proposal to develop a small glamping site at the historic Earsham Mill estate near Bungay has been refused by South Norfolk Council due to flood risk concerns.
The application, submitted earlier in 2024 by Iain Gwynn, sought permission to install three one-bedroom, dog-friendly cabins on the estate grounds, intended to serve as a nature-based countryside retreat.
The proposed glamping development was designed to offer short-break accommodation in rustic, handcrafted cabins built by a local artisan based at the Earsham Mill workshop.
According to the Eastern Daily Press, the project aimed to give guests a chance to “disconnect and enjoy the history that the site and area offer,” while emphasizing ecological viability.
The cabins were described as a “peaceful and relaxing retreat” suited to the rural setting and attractive for weekend stays.
Despite these goals, South Norfolk Council refused the application, citing unresolved concerns about flood risk at the location.
In the delegated officer report, the planning authority stated, “The applicant has failed to demonstrate that the development would not be at risk from unacceptable flood risk.”
The report also noted there was “insufficient information” provided regarding the specific design of the holiday cabins.
Earsham Mill, a 19th-century estate situated within the floodplain of the River Waveney, has a long history tied to the area’s industrial heritage. Its location within a sensitive flood zone made risk assessment a key part of the planning evaluation.
Floodplain development continues to be a critical issue for planning authorities, particularly as climate considerations become increasingly central to local policy decisions.
For outdoor hospitality business owners, this case underscores the importance of thorough environmental due diligence when planning new accommodation projects, particularly those near rivers or wetlands.
Site-specific flood risk assessments, clear design documentation, and engagement with local planning guidance are essential steps in securing approvals.
As councils place growing emphasis on climate resilience, proposals for glamping and eco-accommodation developments must align with both ecological goals and regulatory expectations.