Plans have been submitted to Herefordshire Council to upgrade a section of The Millpond campsite in Little Tarrington from grass pitches to hardstanding pitches. The proposal, lodged by the Hereford Camping and Caravanning Club, seeks permission to convert 10 existing grass with electric pitches into 10 hardstanding with electric pitches.
According to the application, the proposed change responds to a consistent rise in demand for hardstanding pitches over the past decade. The shift has been attributed to changing customer preferences, with more visitors using motorhomes rather than caravans.
Hardstanding surfaces are considered more reliable for motorhome users, particularly in wet conditions, as they reduce the risk of vehicles becoming stuck.
The application notes, “Offering these additional hardstanding pitches will ensure that the business is more viable in the early and later parts of the season.” The club has also indicated that extending the usability of pitches across more months of the year could help with staff retention and operational continuity.
If approved, the works would take place over the next year in accordance with the club’s site specifications, according to a report published by Hereford Times. The Millpond campsite spans 24 acres and operates under the Hereford Camping and Caravanning Club network.
The consultation period for the planning application will remain open until November 14, 2025, allowing residents and interested parties to submit feedback to the council.
For businesses in the outdoor hospitality sector, the proposal reflects an ongoing industry trend toward hardstanding and all-weather pitches.
Many campsite and park operators across the UK are investing in similar upgrades to extend their operational seasons, attract a broader customer base, and improve resilience to adverse weather.
As the popularity of motorhomes continues to rise, investments in durable infrastructure are becoming increasingly important for maintaining occupancy rates and ensuring long-term site viability.