East Suffolk Council is preparing to move forward with a redevelopment plan for Southwold Caravan and Campsite that would significantly alter its current operations.
The proposal, scheduled to be discussed at a cabinet meeting next week, would see the number of static caravan plots reduced from 140 to 74, alongside the introduction of 28 new lodges.
Under the plan, the yearly licence fee for caravan owners would rise from £2,791 to £4,500, with owners moving from an annual arrangement to a 10-year licence.
The council has said the changes could triple the site’s income, estimating profits of up to £820,000 within five years. Redevelopment costs are projected between £4.5 million and £6.5 million over that period.
The first phase of the project is expected between December 2026 and April 2027, though caravan owners will be required to vacate the site by October 2026.
The proposals have prompted concern among long-standing caravan owners. Diane Perry-Yates, chair of the Southwold Caravan Owners Association (SCOA), told the BBC:
“Our members have been on site for a very long time, but some are leaving because there are a lot of unknowns. They are very distraught and distressed, and they really don’t need that worry – they need to be able come down and have that time to enjoy the caravan. But a lot of time now, all they are talking about or worrying about is what is going to happen.”
Perry-Yates added that while owners accept the park needs updating, they feel they have not been adequately included in discussions.
“We accept it needs to be updated and our members would like it to be updated, but you do expect to be kept up to date with what’s happening,” she said. “We have been more than happy to work with the council and have asked for information, but time and time again we have been sidelined.”
The council has defended its approach, noting that no final decisions have been made on the project.
A spokesperson told the BBC: “We are now seeking to progress the project, which will determine the best mix of lodges and caravans as well as the financial viability and deliverability of any scheme.”
”At this stage, the figures quoted are only indicative based on a high-level scheme, and no final decision has yet been made. The caravan owners are updated regularly, and representatives attended the most recent meeting, which unanimously voted in favour of progressing the proposals.”
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, this redevelopment highlights the broader trend of councils and park operators moving toward higher-value accommodation such as lodges.
While this can increase long-term revenue, it also raises questions about balancing profitability with affordability for long-term guests.
Operators considering similar changes may wish to evaluate how fee increases and licence adjustments could affect customer retention, stakeholder relationships, and brand reputation.