A new campsite is being planned in a remote part of the Fens at Marshland St. James, near Wisbech in the United Kingdom. The developer, identified as J Williamson, is hoping to use an exemption under planning laws to create up to ten pitches on the land.
The Camping and Caravanning Club, which is allowed to certify small sites, meaning they do not require planning permission, is involved in the process.
The developer’s agent has reached out to West Norfolk Council to determine if there are any objections on conservation grounds. This is because exempted sites must also conform to habitat regulations.
As reported by the Wisbech Standard, the site would also have drinking water, a cesspool, and waste disposal facilities. Tents would be pitched for a maximum stay of 28 days if the site is allowed to open.
The Camping and Caravanning Club states that sites are normally open between March and October. Landowners must have a minimum of half an acre of land, provide safe access to and from the site, a dustbin that is regularly emptied, a drinking water supply, and a chemical disposal point where campers can empty chemical toilets.
The proposed campsite could bring significant benefits to the local businesses and economy. Campsites attract tourists, who spend money on local goods and services, boosting the local economy. They also create jobs, both directly and indirectly, contributing to the local employment rate.
Moreover, campsites can help to promote the local area as a tourist destination. They provide affordable accommodation for tourists, encouraging more people to visit the area. This can lead to increased visibility and recognition for the local area, attracting even more tourists and businesses in the long run.
However, it is important to ensure that the campsite is developed and managed in a way that is sustainable and respectful of the local environment. This includes ensuring that the site does not negatively impact local wildlife or habitats, and that waste is managed effectively.
The proposed campsite at Marshland St. James could bring significant benefits to the local businesses and economy. However, it is crucial to ensure that the development is sustainable and respectful of the local environment. The local council and the Camping and Caravanning Club will play a key role in ensuring that this is the case.