Exclusive Luxury Glamping Pod Proposed for Flintshire

Developers have submitted plans to create an ‘exclusive one-off’ glamping pod near Mold, England. Flintshire Council has received the proposals for a site based at the private paddock of a cottage in the open countryside in Treuddyn. 

The planning statement submitted with the application states, “Encil y Ddraig will be a one-off luxury glamping pod tourist accommodation destination, which is high-end and high value but low volume.”

Having a sympathetic aesthetically pleasing design, the glamping pod will blend into the surrounding landscape character. It will be positioned to take advantage of the view over the surrounding rolling farmland, while at the same time not overlook (or be overlooked by) any nearby properties.” 

The location, as shown in Flintshire Council planning documents, is in a rural and tranquil setting, which the applicants wish to enhance and protect.

They aim to create an environmentally friendly, low-impact tourism destination within the southern tip of Flintshire, believing there is a gap in the market for high-end, high-quality, environmentally sensitive tourism. 

The applicants are keen to stress the potential benefits for other businesses in the area should the proposal be given the go-ahead and that it dovetails with council strategies.

“Glamping is an increasingly popular leisure activity and facilitates access to the countryside for many people,” the planning statement says. 

They wish to create a high-quality, high-value, low-impact visitor experience that aligns with the council’s strategy to “encourage sustainable tourism to bring considerable benefits for the local economy, inward investment, providing jobs and playing a key role in rural development and urban regeneration.

Inside the proposed glamping pod, as shown in the Flintshire Council planning documents, the market research shows minimal similar facilities within the local area. 

There is a clear shortfall in capacity of high-end glamping-style tourist accommodation in this corner of Flintshire. They believe that the proposed development will only have positive tourism and economic impacts on other local businesses that operate in the hospitality and food sectors, such as:

– Treuddyn local village shop

– Swans Farm Shop (selling local produce)

– Llaeth Carreg Milk (self-serve milk/milkshake vending machines)

– Shops, pubs, restaurants in Mold and other nearby towns

– Local tourist attractions (e.g. Llandegla Forest, Fauxdegla Shooting Ground, Moel Famau, Loggerheads, and other country parks, fisheries)

Encil y Ddraig will also be located directly on the ‘Flintshire Leisure Tour’ driving route and would offer an ideal luxury, high-end, overnight accommodation option.

Should the application be successful and if required, the applicants will also seek a campsite/caravan-site license from Flintshire Council. Noise management strategies would also be put in place, such as no excessive noise/lights after 10 pm.

Flintshire Council planners will make a decision on the application at a future date. For glamping business owners looking to capitalize on the growing popularity of this market, it’s essential to create an exceptional guest experience that sets their accommodations apart from competitors.

By focusing on providing unique, high-quality amenities and carefully considering the environmental impact of their operations, owners can cater to the increasing demand for sustainable and luxurious outdoor experiences. 

It’s also crucial to develop strong partnerships with local businesses and attractions, as these collaborations can enhance guests’ stays and contribute to the local economy. 

By staying informed on industry trends and prioritizing guest satisfaction, glamping business owners can ensure their establishments remain competitive and continue to attract those seeking a memorable outdoor retreat.