A planning application has been submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council proposing changes to Dewslake Farm, a working farm and camping site near Lamphey, Pembrokeshire, that has diversified into glamping and seasonal outdoor festivals.
The application, filed by Dewslake Camping Limited through Argent Architects, seeks permission to convert the site’s main barn into a multi-purpose support facility for events and guest services.
According to the supporting documents, the barn is currently used for overflow storage. Its location within the farm makes it a strategic asset for redevelopment aimed at enhancing site functionality.
“While remaining a working farm, camping, glamping, and facilities for dining and refreshments are among the services provided. Outdoor festivals are held on the site periodically during the summer season,” the statement reads.
The proposed changes would allow the barn to support catering operations, add permanent sanitary and shower facilities, and provide space for administration and reception services.
These functions are currently provided in temporary structures along the building’s perimeter. The new design aims to accommodate both commercial and private functions.
“The barn has the spatial capacity to accommodate a range of different events, both commercial and private,” the statement adds. “The idea is to bring in the operational capacity to service functions and events in the building and on the wider site.”
Further development is also under consideration, according to a report by the Western Telegraph. The owners are expected to submit a separate pre-application for a permanent farmhouse to support 24/7 management of the growing business.
“The growing business model requires considerable on-site management and maintenance,” the statement continues. “The long-term plan is greatly invested in ecological enhancements and trades on this in the marketing approach taken in promoting the campsite.”
Accessibility is also being addressed in the current scheme, with provisions for wheelchair-accessible parking included in the application. The planned upgrades aim to create “a building that is inclusive, easy and enjoyable in use for all.”
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, Dewslake’s plans highlight an example of long-term site development aimed at diversifying income streams and improving infrastructure for event-based tourism.
Investing in permanent infrastructure can reduce reliance on seasonal or temporary setups, strengthen branding opportunities, and support ecological or sustainability-based positioning in the market.
The planning application will be reviewed by Pembrokeshire County Council at a future date yet to be announced.