A couple in south Shropshire has received approval to install glamping cabins at their campsite after winning an appeal against Shropshire Council’s refusal. The decision allows Mr. and Mrs. Trachonitis to develop the site adjacent to The White House in Hamperley, near Church Stretton.
The couple originally submitted plans for the project to provide functional use for their land while attracting tourists to the Shropshire Hills.
Charlotte Mason, a graduate surveyor at Peter Richards & Co., explained that the proposal includes a principal glamping unit for sleeping accommodation and a smaller cabin intended for additional uses such as a golf simulator, relaxation, and painting or hobby activities.
“Having researched it extensively, the applicants feel the proposal will afford a unique, low-impact tourism offering in the heart of the Shropshire Hills,” Ms. Mason told the Ludlow & Tenbury Wells Advertiser.
She added that the site benefits from easy access to public rights of way, and the cabins are temporary units that meet the definition of the Caravan Act. The plans also include parking and a package treatment system.
“The proposed use is complementary to other tourism accommodation in the area, such as Long Mynd Adventure Camp and Hamperley Camping,” Ms. Mason added.
Shropshire Council initially rejected the application, citing the location’s status as open countryside beyond pre-defined settlement boundaries.
Case officer Helen Tipton said that while the development might contribute slightly to the local visitor economy, similar accommodations already exist in more accessible and policy-compliant areas. She also noted concerns that the associated infrastructure would not be temporary or meet the Caravan Act’s definition.
Following the refusal, the Trachonitis couple appealed the decision. Planning inspector Hannah Guest reviewed the case and concluded that although the site is in open countryside, it is “reasonably accessible” by car and a “short and convenient drive” to Church Stretton.
She noted that the proposed development is modest in size and relies on a secluded countryside setting, which can support local tourism. Ms. Guest determined that the project would provide economic benefits to the area and allowed the appeal, granting planning permission.
This decision highlights the potential for glamping and small-scale outdoor accommodations to gain approval in rural areas when they demonstrate low environmental impact, accessibility, and economic contribution.
For outdoor hospitality business owners, it underscores the importance of framing proposals around tourism value, integration with existing amenities, and regulatory compliance.