A planning application to extend the operational season of a glamping campsite in the New Forest has been rejected following complaints from nearby residents about fire safety concerns and quality-of-life impacts.
Harry’s Field, a seasonal campsite located in Frogham, Hampshire, submitted a proposal in December 2023 to the New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) to increase its operating window to 52 days per year.
The site is operated by Vivien Sheriff, a well-known milliner with royal clientele. The proposal drew formal objections from around 40 local residents who raised issues related to fire hazards, smoke pollution, and general disruption.
According to the Independent, concerns centered around the campsite’s allowance of fire pits near thatched cottages and woodland areas.
While open fires and disposable barbecues are banned in the New Forest due to the wildfire risk, Harry’s Field rents fire pits to guests and sells kiln-dried firewood.
Residents argued that these activities could pose a significant fire threat, particularly during dry summer months.
“Much more noise and loud music has been generated—as well as smoke, intense cooking smells of burgers, etc, and increased numbers of campers, traffic and parking on the verges,” said Stephen Havelock, a local resident who voiced his objection to the NFNPA.
He described the campsite’s location as “a tinderbox in the summer” and said it was “detested by many locals.”
Another resident, Dr. Helen Taylor, objected “in the strongest possible terms,” citing the fire risk to homes with thatched roofs and the impact of smoke on health and quality of life.
“Other residents have suffered significant worsening of their asthmatic symptoms as a result of this smoke pollution,” she said.
In response to the backlash, Ms. Sheriff defended the campsite’s operations. “Nobody wants a quiet campsite more than we do,” she said.
“We were encouraged to do this by the director of the national park planning team. This has been stormed up by a few people who have an axe to grind.”
The campsite markets itself as a family-friendly, dog-friendly destination located along quiet lanes and surrounded by wildlife.
It enforces a strict 11 p.m. noise curfew and prohibits the use of music or radios on-site. Fire pit rentals begin at £15 per night, and campers are restricted to using the campsite’s provided pits.
Despite these measures, the NFNPA formally rejected the application in May 2025, stating that the proposed changes would have an “unacceptable adverse impact” on nearby residents.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, the situation underscores the importance of balancing guest experiences with local community concerns.
Operators considering expanding services or operating seasons should closely engage with nearby residents and regulatory authorities to navigate potential opposition and ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.
Effective communication, clear fire safety protocols, and proactive community engagement may help mitigate conflict and foster long-term viability.