A planning application has been submitted to Ceredigion County Council seeking permission to expand Five Oaks Campsite in Penrhiwllan, Ceredigion, amid reported demand from visitors who have been unable to book stays at the site.
The application concerns a change of use of land at Penllwybr to accommodate five touring caravans, five tents, and one static caravan. The proposal also includes associated toilet and shower facilities.
According to documents submitted with the application, the expansion is intended to give the campsite greater flexibility in how it prices and advertises its accommodation and facilities. The applicants said they have experienced strong demand since opening and are seeking to expand the facilities available to guests.
The planning documents state that the applicants “have seen a huge demand to date and want to improve on site facilities to improve their offering”.
According to Cambrian News, the application also identifies limitations associated with the campsite’s current certification arrangement as one factor behind the proposed expansion. The applicants “report that more people have sought to visit site but cannot due to not being members of their certification body,” according to the submitted documents.
The applicants added: “the applicants believe they will be able to better meet the demand via the development outlined in this planning application.
If approved, the proposal would increase the site’s mix of accommodation by adding both touring and tent pitches alongside a static caravan. The planned toilet and shower facilities would also provide additional guest amenities, although the application documents do not indicate when construction would begin if permission is granted.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the proposal illustrates how demand, membership or certification restrictions, and the range of facilities offered can influence decisions about expanding a small campsite.
Increasing pitch numbers can provide additional capacity, while adding facilities may allow an operator to serve a broader customer base and adjust its commercial offering. However, any expansion remains subject to local planning requirements, including consideration of the site’s proposed land use and associated infrastructure.
The application has not yet been determined. Ceredigion County Council’s planning committee or relevant planning authority will consider the proposal at a later date, with the outcome determining whether Five Oaks Campsite can proceed with the proposed expansion.
