Plans to introduce glamping pods on a rural field in Walberton, West Sussex, have been granted approval by Arun District Council, despite concerns from residents and the local parish council regarding potential disturbances.
The application, which allows for six glamping pods to be installed on land south of The Black Horse pub on Binsted Lane, was supported by council officers who cited its potential benefits for the rural economy and tourism.
The planning decision, issued in July 2025, permits the creation of shepherds hut-style pods, along with associated access, car parking, and landscaping features.
According to the council’s planning report, the site is currently used intermittently for equestrian purposes and is otherwise undeveloped and vegetated.
Officers described the scheme as “a small-scale tourist accommodation development that would relate to the informal recreation and enjoyment of the countryside.”
They added, “The site is accommodation only, leaving the verdant site, and the surrounding countryside and its incidental recreational uses for enjoyment.”
The huts are designed in a traditional shepherds hut form, incorporating timber cladding, curved corrugated metal roofs, and small timber verandas. Wildflower meadows, grass paths, and tree planting are included in the landscaping plans.
The only significant hardstanding element will be a gravel car park, which officers described as “necessary and appropriate” and “of a scale no greater than required.”
Concerns raised by local residents and Walberton Parish Council primarily focused on the potential use of the site for hen and stag parties, and the associated risks of noise and disruption.
However, council officers concluded that these concerns were not grounds to block or limit the development.
“The concerns of nearby residents and the Parish regarding potential for parties or larger groups generating additional noise are noted, but this is subjective to the individuals comprising the group, and is not sufficient reason to restrict the development as a whole, nor to impose restrictions on, or to categorise, groups of individuals based on their reasons for using the site,” the planning report stated.
According to Sussex World, the parish council did not object outright but called for conditions related to light and noise pollution, and highlighted the need for archaeological and wildlife assessments.
Some residents described the proposal as “strange” and harmful to the area’s character, suggesting the site might be better used as overflow parking for the pub. Environmental concerns focused on local wildlife and the visual impact of development.
In contrast, 12 letters of support were submitted in favour of the project, citing its potential to contribute positively to the local economy by attracting visitors and supporting local hospitality businesses.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, the Walberton case underscores the importance of addressing local community concerns while demonstrating environmental sensitivity and economic benefits.
Small-scale glamping developments, when designed with a light footprint and clear alignment with the surrounding landscape, may gain planning approval even in rural or semi-sensitive locations.
Ensuring plans include mitigations for noise, light, and ecological impact can be key to navigating both public perception and regulatory processes.