Dorset Council has denied a lawful development certificate for Eweleaze Campsite in Osmington, a decision that may impact the site’s operational flexibility in the future.
The application, submitted by site owner Peter Broatch, sought recognition of continued use beyond the temporary period permitted under current regulations.
Eweleaze Campsite, which has been operating since August 2013, spans ten acres across eight fields and accommodates up to 300 pitches.
The site provides various amenities, including shower and toilet blocks, a farm shop, food vendors, and designated play areas. Since 2021, it has also offered 12-15 bell tents for guests, which are removed at the end of each season.
Under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order, campsites in England were originally restricted to operating for 30 days per year, later extended to 60 days in response to the pandemic.
The 2023 update to the Order limits sites to a maximum of 50 units, though this excludes caravans. Broatch presented aerial photographs dating back to 2016 and acknowledged that the site had exceeded the temporary period each season.
However, Dorset Council concluded that the evidence provided did not sufficiently establish continuous use beyond the allowed timeframe, according to a report by the Dorset Echo.
“None of the other Statutory Declarations submitted provide sufficient evidence as to when and for how long camping has taken place in any calendar year over the last 10 years,” the council stated.
“In each year over the last 10 years it would appear that the only consistent period of camping would be between the 3rd August to 30th August in each calendar over the last 10 years and which comprises 27 days inclusive based on the evidence submitted by Mr Broatch.”
While the decision does not require the campsite to close, it does reinforce the 60-day operational limit unless an alternative legal route is pursued.
The ruling also restricts the site to 50 pitches, potentially impacting future growth and capacity planning.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the case highlights the importance of maintaining detailed operational records when seeking to secure long-term planning permissions.
Regulatory frameworks around temporary campsite operations continue to evolve, and compliance with evidence-based requirements remains crucial for businesses looking to extend their operating seasons.
Eweleaze Campsite has announced adjustments for the upcoming season, stating on its website:
“We needed a catch-up year (like Glastonbury), so have decided this year to downscale a little and just provide our luxury bell tents. We know this will disappoint a lot of people, but this is something we have had to do to give ourselves a break and regroup. Don’t worry, we intend to be back better than before in 2026!”
The site plans to operate from July 14 to August 25 this year, focusing on a more limited offering. The situation underscores broader challenges faced by seasonal campsites navigating regulatory restrictions while maintaining business viability.