Shortlake Farm campsite in Osmington has applied for a certificate of lawful use, seeking formal recognition that its camping operation is legally established.
The owner, Peter Broatch, argues that the site has been in continuous use for more than ten years, meeting the threshold under planning law for activities to be considered lawful if not challenged within that period.
The Dorset site, which covers 10 hectares across five fields, can accommodate around 300 pitches.
Facilities brought in each year include shop cabins, showers, toilets, washing-up areas, a pizza van, and a bar. According to its website, the site will operate this year from late July until August 25.
Under current planning rules, camping sites without full planning permission may operate for up to 60 days annually if permission is sought in advance, or 28 days if not, with a limit of 50 pitches.
A previous attempt by Mr. Broatch to gain approval for more permanent operations and additional pitches was unsuccessful.
In 2023, Dorset Council rejected an application, concluding that consistent camping at the site only occurred between August 3 and August 30, a 27-day period over the past decade.
The latest application, submitted by Kernon Countryside Consultants on behalf of Mr. Broatch, argues that the period for setting up and dismantling the site should also be considered.
The agent says this typically involves three weeks before the camping season begins and two to three weeks after it ends.
The firm contends that Dorset Council and its predecessor were aware of the extended operations since 2013 but did not enforce planning restrictions, despite a warning of a possible breach in July 2023.
“The undisputed facts are that people camped on the land for between 29 and 59 days each year. In addition, the undisputed facts are that set-up and take-down involved a further 28-35 days each year,” the agent stated.
“Taking the lower of this range, the breach therefore occurred for between 57 and 87 days each year… With the revised site plan and the additional evidence and analysis, the Council now has the clear evidence of a breach, and a Certificate of Lawfulness can be issued.”
Evidence submitted includes aerial photographs and sworn statements from Mr. Broatch confirming extended use each year since 2013. Osmington Parish Council has not commented on the application.
According to the Dorset Echo, a local resident noted that the site is well-maintained when not in use, though expressed concern about the allowance of campfires.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, this case highlights the complexities of planning law, particularly the importance of documentation and historical evidence in demonstrating lawful use.
Operators considering expansion or permanent operations may find that sustained records, community feedback, and awareness of regulatory thresholds play a key role in securing approvals.