A proposal to install six glamping pods on farmland near Walberton, West Sussex, has experienced delays due to documentation issues related to land ownership.
The application was submitted to Arun District Council on March 19, with plans to place the pods on a portion of Binsted Farm—specifically on equestrian grazing land located behind The Black Horse pub. The farm spans approximately 280 hectares.
The planning process was temporarily paused in May after it was determined that the submitted ownership certificate incorrectly identified the applicant as the sole owner of all the land involved.
A portion of the proposed development site is unregistered with the Land Registry, which complicates the documentation requirements.
In an email sent to the applicant on May 12, Harry Chalk, a senior planning officer at Arun District Council, explained the problem in a report by The Argus:
“As I now understand the situation, it appears the ownership certificate is currently inaccurate in identifying the applicant as the sole owner of all land relevant to the proposal. In light of the invalid certificate, the application will need to be put on hold for the moment and restarted with the correct information once amended and submitted.”
By May 22, Mr. Chalk confirmed that the necessary paperwork had been resubmitted, which allowed the planning application to proceed.
The project has generated both support and opposition from the local community. Eleven local business owners submitted letters backing the proposal, citing the potential for increased tourism and associated economic benefits to the area.
However, concerns have also been raised by nearby residents. One objection read: “Overall, this is a very strange and damaging site for glamping, with all the noise and stag and hen parties which it would no doubt encourage.”
Another added: “It seems to me that most of the people in favour of the proposed glamping site do not live in Binsted. I live near the site, so will get the full force of the noise, especially from the outdoor hot tubs.”
Additional objections highlighted concerns about traffic and local infrastructure, with one resident stating: “This can only be to the detriment of adjacent housing, and also add to the road chaos caused by pub-goers parking along the roadside.”
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, this case underscores the importance of accurate land registration and documentation in the planning process.
Developers and site operators considering expansion or new projects should verify ownership details early in the application process, especially when land parcels are unregistered or jointly held.
Clear documentation not only helps avoid costly delays but also builds credibility with planning authorities and the surrounding community.