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Pembrokeshire Caravan Site’s Expansion Bid Denied Over Insufficient Evidence

A Pembrokeshire caravan site’s bid to operate with more than five pitches has been denied by Pembrokeshire County Council. This decision follows a prior approval that allowed the site to retain its associated toilet and shower facilities despite their construction without planning permission.

Mrs. Hodge, the site owner, had applied for a lawful development certificate to formally establish the use of The Stables, Simpson South Farm, Simpson Cross, as a caravan and camping site.

According to a report by Rayo, the application proposed 25 touring caravan pitches and unlimited tent and motorhome accommodations for use between March and November each year.

However, council officers determined that the evidence provided did not meet the requirements to demonstrate consistent unauthorized use for the legally required period of ten years.

A lawful development certificate allows for the formal recognition of a development’s legitimacy if sufficient proof of prolonged use or occupancy is presented.

However, the council found that the applicant had not provided adequate evidence to show that the site had been operating beyond the five-pitch limit set by an exemption certificate.

A report noted: “It has not been demonstrated, on balance, that the use as a caravan and camping site for 25 touring caravan and unlimited tent/motorhome pitches has existed unauthorized and uninterrupted for the required timeframe (10 years).”

This outcome contrasts with the approval granted in 2023 for a toilet and shower block, which had been constructed without prior planning permission. That decision was partially influenced by support from former council leader Cllr. Jamie Adams.

However, council officers clarified that the presence of facilities does not constitute evidence of lawful site operations exceeding the exemption limits.

For outdoor hospitality operators, this case underscores the importance of maintaining accurate records and compliance with local planning regulations. As local authorities continue to scrutinize expansion efforts, businesses should ensure that any use beyond initial permissions is well-documented to strengthen future applications.

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Hi, you might find this article from Modern Campground interesting: Pembrokeshire Caravan Site’s Expansion Bid Denied Over Insufficient Evidence! This is the link: https://moderncampground.com/europe/united-kingdom/pembrokeshire-caravan-sites-expansion-bid-denied-over-insufficient-evidence/