Plans to expand Sheringwood Caravan and Motorhome CL Site near Beeston Regis and Sheringham have been formally withdrawn following local opposition related to traffic and access concerns.
The proposal, submitted to North Norfolk District Council, sought to introduce glamping accommodations including three shepherd huts, additional caravan bays, and expanded parking.
Plans also included the construction of a lavatory and shower block to support increased visitor numbers. However, local feedback prompted the applicants to pull the proposal before it could proceed through the planning process.
Residents voiced concerns about the impact on the narrow track roads leading to the site. One local noted the road is “maintained by the goodwill of a couple of residents” and already struggles with existing traffic levels.
“Caravans from the existing sites (sites which were created without any regard to the limited access) have frequently been seen to be stuck ascending the track, thus blocking access for the council tax paying residents,” the resident said in a report by Eastern Daily Press.
Another objection cited the growing number of holiday lets in the Sheringwood area, which some believe is exacerbating the pressure on the fragile infrastructure.
“There are also an ever-increasing number of holiday lets in Sheringwood, resulting in even more traffic damaging this extremely fragile track,” a local said.
In addition to road safety, questions were raised about the proposed increase in guest capacity. A resident questioned the lack of specificity in the application, stating:
“The application refers to ‘additional’ van bays but does not detail the volume – this needs to be clarified. Additionally, any agreement needs to be monitored to ensure planning limits are not contravened and there is no future ‘development creep.’”
Weybourne Parish Council issued a response indicating it would not oppose the application if visitor numbers were capped at a maximum of 18 units—12 from two Certificated Locations and six from glamping units.
“We strongly feel that this maximum occupation should be both applied and adhered to,” the council said.
For outdoor hospitality professionals, the case highlights the importance of aligning expansion plans with community expectations and local infrastructure limitations.
Operators considering site development may benefit from engaging with residents early, providing detailed traffic and infrastructure assessments, and addressing concerns transparently.
Monitoring compliance and clearly defining development boundaries can also help avoid objections and planning delays.
The withdrawal of the proposal marks the latest example of how perceived overuse of rural access routes can derail expansion plans in sensitive or small-scale communities.