In a recent decision by Rother District Council, Winchelsea Caravan Park in East Sussex has been granted permission to extend its operating season. This decision will allow the park, which currently houses 57 static caravans, to remain open for an additional three-and-a-half months each year. The extension aims to provide more flexibility in hosting visitors outside of the traditional holiday season.
The decision was not without its controversies, as Icklesham Parish Council raised concerns about potential overdevelopment and increased traffic congestion. Specific worries were voiced regarding the local infrastructure’s ability to handle an uptick in waste management needs, particularly the increased use of cesspits in the area.
According to a Sussex World report, the planning committee convened on April 18 to review the application to amend the conditions set in the 1960s, which restricted the operational season of the caravan park.
The parish council feared that more tankers on the roads during the winter months would exacerbate existing issues, especially with Winchelsea Beach already facing challenges due to an inadequate main sewerage system.
Despite these concerns, the planning committee found the arguments from the parish council insufficient to deny the application. The caravan park’s representatives clarified that they do not anticipate a significant rise in visitor numbers during the extended months but sought approval for greater operational flexibility.
Planning officers recommended the approval of the application, aligning with the applicant’s perspective that the extension would not lead to substantial changes in visitor patterns but would instead offer more options for potential guests during the quieter winter months.
Further details on the council’s decision and the full application can be accessed through the Rother District Council website under application reference RR/2023/2630/P.
The new operational period will stretch from March 1 to February 14, expanding beyond the previous closing date of October 31.
Campground and caravan park owners can acquire lessons from Winchelsea Caravan Park’s strategic decision to extend its operating season. This adaptation to extend the availability of their facilities from the traditional end in October to mid-February represents a shift towards meeting modern consumer preferences for flexibility and extended travel opportunities.
For park owners, it’s essential to recognize the economic advantages of such extensions, as they allow for increased utilization of their facilities and provide a steady revenue stream during typically quieter periods.
Furthermore, the Winchelsea case illustrates the importance of engaging effectively with local governance and the community when proposing operational changes. Addressing concerns proactively, such as potential traffic increases and infrastructure stress due to extended operations, is crucial.