Planning Permission for Caravan Parks
Planning permission is one of the most important regulatory considerations for UK caravan and holiday park operators. It determines how land can be used, how many units can be sited, what facilities can be built, and the length of the operating season. Getting it right is essential for legal compliance, long‑term investment planning and avoiding costly enforcement action. This guide explains what planning permission means for caravan parks, when it is required, and the responsibilities operators must meet to remain compliant with local‑authority expectations. What Is Planning Permission for Caravan Parks? Planning permission is the formal approval from a local planning authority (LPA) that allows land to be used as a caravan or holiday park. It sets out: Planning permission works alongside the site licence. Both documents must align — the licence cannot permit anything that planning permission prohibits. When Planning Permission Is Required Planning permission is required for: Even small changes may require approval if they affect the character, capacity or environmental impact of the site. Operators should always check with the LPA before making alterations, as retrospective applications can be costly and may not be approved. Operator Responsibilities Under Planning Permission Holiday park operators must comply with all planning conditions, which may include: 1. Occupancy Restrictions Many parks have conditions limiting: Breaching occupancy rules is one of the most common enforcement issues. 2. Unit Numbers and Layout Operators must ensure: 3. Landscaping and Environmental Measures Conditions may require: 4. Infrastructure and Access Operators may need to maintain: 5. Record Keeping Operators should retain: These may be requested during inspections or enforcement investigations. Local Authority Role & Inspections Local planning authorities: Planning enforcement can include: Early engagement with the LPA helps avoid disputes and delays. Common Compliance Issues Typical planning‑permission problems for caravan parks include: These issues often arise from incremental changes over time, lack of documentation or misunderstanding of planning conditions. Key Takeaways for Park Operators Understanding planning‑permission requirements is essential for protecting your business and supporting sustainable growth.
Health & Safety Responsibilities of Park Operators
Health and safety compliance is a core responsibility for every UK caravan and holiday park operator. With a mix of accommodation, public areas, staff workplaces and high visitor turnover, parks must manage a wide range of risks. Meeting health and safety obligations is essential not only for legal compliance but also for protecting guests, staff and the long‑term reputation of the park. This guide explains what health and safety law requires from park operators, when duties apply, and the common issues that lead to enforcement action. What Are Health & Safety Responsibilities for Park Operators? Holiday parks fall under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, which requires operators to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable: Operators must also comply with specific regulations covering: Health and safety duties apply to all areas of the park, including rental units, communal buildings, shops, cafés, workshops and outdoor spaces. When Health & Safety Duties Apply Health and safety responsibilities apply: Operators must also review health and safety arrangements when: Operator Responsibilities Under Health & Safety Law 1. Risk Assessments Operators must carry out written risk assessments covering: Assessments must be reviewed regularly and after any significant change. 2. Safe Maintenance of Facilities Operators must ensure: 3. Gas & Electrical Safety Parks must comply with: This includes annual gas checks and periodic electrical testing. 4. Water Hygiene & Legionella Control Operators must manage risks in: 5. Staff Training & Competence All staff must receive training appropriate to their role, including: 6. Guest Information Clear communication helps reduce risk, including: Local Authority Role & Inspections Local authorities and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE): Inspections may be scheduled or triggered by incidents. Common Compliance Issues Typical health and safety problems include: These issues often arise from seasonal pressures or inconsistent internal checks. Key Takeaways for Park Operators
Electrical Safety Obligations for Caravan Parks
Electrical safety is a critical compliance area for UK caravan and holiday park operators. With multiple accommodation units, communal buildings, outdoor lighting, EV chargers and high seasonal demand, parks must ensure that all electrical systems are safe, well‑maintained and compliant with UK regulations. This guide explains what electrical‑safety law requires from park operators, when inspections are needed, and the common issues that lead to enforcement action. What Are Electrical Safety Obligations for Caravan Parks? Holiday parks must comply with: These regulations require operators to ensure that: Electrical safety applies to: When Electrical Safety Duties Apply Electrical‑safety responsibilities apply: Operators must also review electrical safety after: Operator Responsibilities Under Electrical‑Safety Regulations 1. Periodic Inspection & Testing (EICR) Operators must ensure: Holiday parks typically require more frequent inspections due to high usage. 2. Safety of Touring Hook‑Ups Hook‑up points must be: 3. Electrical Safety in Rental Units Operators must ensure: 4. Maintenance of Communal Facilities Electrical systems in: must be inspected and maintained to prevent risk. 5. Competent Contractors Only qualified electricians should: Local Authority Role & Inspections Local authorities may: The Health and Safety Executive may also become involved in serious incidents. Common Compliance Issues Frequent electrical‑safety problems include: These issues often arise from seasonal pressures and high turnover of guests. Key Takeaways for Park Operators
The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show 2026| Industry Event
The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show returns this June to the NAEC Stoneleigh in Warwickshire, bringing together one of the most targeted and engaged audiences in the sector — both Trade and Public. This isn’t just another date in the calendar. It’s the moment when buyers are at their most open, most curious, and most ready to make decisions that shape future developments. What sets the show apart is its unapologetically hands‑on experience. Visitors step inside real homes, speak directly with manufacturers, and interact with products in a way no digital platform can match. They compare models, ask detailed questions, and immerse themselves in the lifestyle — often for the first time. Why It Matters for Every Corner of the Industry For parks: It’s the moment visitors picture themselves living or holidaying on your site — whether leisure or residential. For manufacturers: Your craftsmanship is experienced first‑hand by the people who matter most: park owners, landowners, developers, and decision‑makers. For suppliers and service providers: Your products and solutions become part of the visitor’s vision for their next project. For industry experts: Your knowledge becomes the bridge between curiosity and confidence, helping buyers make informed choices. The show remains the sector’s most powerful catalyst for meaningful connection — where conversations start, relationships form, and future sales take shape. Flexible Opportunities for Exhibitors Exhibitors can participate in several ways: As the organisers put it: “Our show offers the entire industry an unparalleled opportunity to build early relationships and influence buying decisions. It’s where conversations begin, trust is built, and future sales take shape.” Be Part of the Industry’s Most Important Gathering The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show continues to be the sector’s key annual meeting point — where parks, manufacturers, suppliers, and experts come together to shape the future of the industry. If you’d like to get involved, simply get in touch: 📧 organisers@parkandleisurehomeshows.co.uk 🌐 www.parkhomeandleisure.co.uk 📞 07917 131681
Beyond aesthetics: How BS 3632 protects value in lodges and park homes
Investing in lodges and residential park homes is no longer just about aesthetics, location or short-term yield. As regulation tightens, energy costs rise and consumer expectations shift, build quality and compliance standards have become recognised as being central to long-term value. Among these, BS 3632 stands out as a defining benchmark for anyone treating a lodge or mobile home as an asset rather than a disposable structure. BS 3632 is the British Standard for residential park homes and high-specification timber lodges designed for year-round occupation. First published in 1963, and most recently revised in 2023, BS 3632 reflects modern expectations around fire safety, structural integrity, thermal efficiency and durability. In practical terms, it distinguishes buildings designed to perform like homes from those intended only for seasonal or limited use. Achieving the standard fundamentally changes how a building must be engineered. For manufacturers such as Pinelog, working to BS 3632 is not a marketing exercise. It is a design and manufacturing framework that directly affects safety, lifespan, operating costs and resale value. For customers, that commitment translates into measurable, long-term benefits including thermal efficiency, enhance moisture control, reduced fuel bills, improved acoustics, noise reduction, space optimisation and increased value for money. Why the 2023 update matters The most recent revision of BS 3632 is part of the revision of building safety standards across the UK, with greater emphasis now placed on fire resistance, escape routes and risk mitigation. The 2023 standard strengthens requirements that directly affect occupant safety, such as fire performance of materials and the ability to exit a building quickly in an emergency. It also raises expectations around thermal performance, aligning with wider national objectives on energy efficiency and sustainability. Attention to detail is not optional under the standard. Elements such as heater appliances door clearances and ventilation performance are specified to ensure safety and functionality in real-world conditions. These details rarely feature in sales brochures, but they directly influence occupant safety and long-term usability. For investors and operators, this matters because buildings that fail to meet evolving safety and performance expectations face increasing regulatory risk, higher running costs and reduced market appeal. Pinelog, a luxury timber lodge manufacturer based in Derbyshire is independently verified as BS 3632 compliant, undergoing rigorous quarterly inspections by the National Caravan Council (NCC) which polices the standard and uses it as the benchmark for its Manufacturer Approval Scheme. Craig Morrison, Pinelog’s Operations Director explained: “Maintaining BS 3632 certification isn’t easy, and we wouldn’t want it to be. It’s a lot more than simply a piece of paper. Having the standard provides reassurance to our customers that Pinelog lodges are safe, durable, and built to the highest specification in the UK industry.” Customers agree. Tony Preston, Sales and Marketing Manager at Mercia Marina Village and Park said: “Pinelog’s timber lodges are built using premium sustainable materials and continue to perform and look good year-on-year, minimising maintenance costs. This also enables them to retain their value when it comes to resale.” BS 3632 as a financial decision A lodge built to BS 3632 costs more to manufacture than one built to a lower specification. That additional upfront cost is often where decision-making becomes skewed. However, when viewed as an asset rather than a product, the financial logic shifts. BS 3632 buildings are more energy-efficient, reducing heating costs across all seasons. They are designed to manage moisture and temperature consistently, reducing long-term maintenance issues such as condensation damage, material degradation and premature component failure. High quality building materials and craftmanship also positively affects residual value as the longevity of the structures can far exceed 20+ years. With owners often choosing to upgrade, this has resulted in a thriving market for pre-owned Pinelog lodges, not only for holiday homes but also permanent residences. The Future Farms Partnership (FFP) a pioneering farming initiative in Powys, Wales, purchased three pre-owned Pinelog lodges last year to provide homes for young farmers at their Wern Farm site in Powys, Mid Wales. Gary Mitchell, CEO, Social Farms & Gardens explained: “We believe that if the Pinelog lodges are well looked after, they’ll easily last another 20 years; that gives the option to move them to future farm sites or even allow tenants to apply for permanent planning if they want to stay in them long-term.” Year-round use and revenue potential For holiday park operators, BS 3632 unlocks extended operating seasons. Lodges designed for permanent occupation provide consistent comfort regardless of external conditions. That supports longer letting periods, higher occupancy rates and improved guest satisfaction. Energy efficiency plays a direct role here. Well-insulated lodges with effective ventilation systems maintain stable internal environments with lower energy demand. This improves margins while aligning with guest expectations around sustainability and comfort. For private owners, year-round performance removes seasonal limitations. A BS 3632 lodge behaves like a home, not a temporary structure. Comfort, safety and running costs remain consistent throughout the year. Tony Preston adds: “Pinelog’s lodges are so well insulated that they can be booked throughout the year, and we know that guests are warm and comfortable, and that our owners won’t have astronomical heating bills.” Risk reduction through standards By enforcing minimum performance thresholds BS 3632. Fire safety requirements reduce liability exposure. Structural and material standards reduce the likelihood of premature failure. Energy efficiency requirements future-proof buildings against rising costs and regulatory pressure. From an investment perspective, these factors compound. Lower operational risk and longer service life improve total cost of ownership. It also supports resale. In a market increasingly shaped by regulation, sustainability and informed consumers, should BS 3632 be an optional upgrade or standard?
Park owners raise tourism tax fears for Cumbria
A leading Lake District holiday park owner says that Cumbria has two years to step back from the potentially disastrous consequences of imposing a tourism tax on visitors. Henry Wild of Skelwith Fold Caravan Park in Ambleside was speaking after the recent Government decision to allow mayors in England to impose tourism taxes. Cumbria is to become a mayor-led authority in May 2027, and afterward could introduce a visitor levy on people staying overnight in the Lake District. Award winning park boss Henry Wild said that moves to impose a levy for overnight stays would be a “totally self-defeating measure”. Instead of raising local revenues, he said, the number of visitors to Cumbria would be likely to fall as families turn to other destinations that were not imposing tourism taxes. The effect of fewer holidaymakers, warns Henry, will be felt by a multitude of local businesses – such as shops, cafes and attractions – which rely on the tourism economy. Henry, a former national chairman of the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA), said: “Accommodation providers such as holiday parks and hotels pay substantial business rates to the local authority, and these are reflected in the prices we charge to guests. “In other words, visitors are already putting their hands in their pockets when they stay the night in Cumbria – so a tourism tax would be a double whammy. “Our businesses also pay for commercial services from the council, such as waste collection and recycling, so that’s another way we help to fill their coffers. “It should also be remembered that although tens of millions of people visit Cumbria each year, many are day trippers and so won’t be contributing to the levy. “I believe a strong case for our council to take a long and hard look at the threats this tax poses, and how it could damage local businesses already paying their way.” Henry has now issued an open invitation for council chiefs to meet him if they would like to weigh up the economic implications of bringing in a tourism tax in two years’ time. Meanwhile, the Lake District National Park Partnership (LDNPP) has now confirmed it has ruled out recommending the use of a ‘vehicle levy’ to visiting vehicles in a bid to fund sustainable transport improvements. Industry leaders said a charge would reduce overcrowding that has caused parking issues, which has seen tourist vehicles blocking key routes. Politicians want to make it easier for tourists to use public transport, such as buses, to travel around the Lake District. The move sparked opposition from Cumbria Tourism. Its managing director, Gill Haigh, told the BBC that “new taxes would upset the fragile economy”. “It sounds very easy [to say] ‘let’s tax the tourist’,” she said, “but we have to remember the tourist is already very heavily taxed. “One of the challenges that we’ve all got is that we’re really feeling it in our pocket and that’s really impacting our businesses at the moment.” Celia Caulcott, Chair of the Lake District National Park Partnership, said: “The Lake District National Park Partnership commissioned the ‘Sustainable Funding of Sustainable Transport in the Lake District’ report following Partnership discussions around a visitor levy. “The recommendations in the report were not progressed, including the refinement of costing around a visitor vehicle tax. Instead, Partners agreed to work with relevant authorities to create and deliver a plan for improvements in sustainable and active travel. “This would give the Partnership requisite scope to maintain a flexible and informed position on this area of emerging interest, particularly given the establishment of the Cumbria Mayoral Combined Authority in 2026 and likely powers to be devolved to that Authority.“The Lake District National Park Partnership Plan 2026-2031 remains ongoing and we encourage everyone to have their say by completing the survey at www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/partnershipconsultation.”
What’s the outlook for the leisure and hospitality sector in 2026?
The leisure and hospitality sector is extremely dynamic, with businesses heavily affected by uncontrollable external factors such as government policies and consumer trends. In 2025, we saw employers’ National Insurance contributions and the National Minimum Wage (NMW) rise, placing increasing financial pressures on businesses. The sector has also been adapting to the boom in technology and AI, which consumers are increasingly expecting to use to enhance their customer experience – and this is only the beginning of this trend. So, now we’re in 2026, what opportunities and challenges can we expect to see? And how can leisure and hospitality businesses prepare for these? Roads over runways According to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, road trips are leading future travel plans for Brits, with 61% planning to drive to their destination of choice in the next 12 months. This is largely driven by the cost-saving appeal, but many also value the spontaneity, being able to pack more items and the convenience of having their own car. This suggests that many people will be opting to holiday in the UK in 2026, rather than travelling abroad, which presents a great opportunity for leisure and hospitality businesses across the country. But where there are opportunities, there are also challenges, and businesses will need to be ready for increased demand. Making sure you have the resources to deliver your services during busy periods is vital, whether that’s by hiring more team members or increasing stock reserves. If you haven’t already, look at your budgets and forecasts for 2026 to make sure you have the reserves to invest in the resources you’ll need to keep up with this expected increase in demand. And don’t forget – competing businesses will also be taking advantage of this UK road trip trend, so put yourself ahead of the competition by diversifying your services and offering attractive incentives to customers. Whether it’s expanding your menu to offer regional dishes and drinks, or offering discounted rates for returning customers, having a strategy in place to draw customers in is key. The rise of technology We will undoubtedly see more technology woven into the leisure and hospitality sector in 2026, including the use of AI. An increasing number of travellers are already using generative AI for planning and booking their trips, and major leisure and tourism brands like Expedia and Booking.com are integrating tools like ChatGPT – so it’s never been easier for a robot to plan your holiday for you. In addition to this, the likes of online booking systems, digital check-in systems and apps that personalise guest experiences will only become more sophisticated in 2026, so leisure and hospitality businesses need to be on top of the latest tech to remain profitable. But the rise of technology and AI doesn’t come without its complications and challenges. It has been behind a growing number of travel scams in recent times, so businesses need to ensure these tools are being used securely and that cybersecurity is a priority. Some of the best ways to protect yourself are: set yourself a cybersecurity budget and invest in coverage that includes support for breach recovery; use multi-factor authentication wherever possible; update your software regularly; and train your team to spot scams. The more you can do to safeguard your business, the better. Changing fiscal policies The 2025 Autumn Budget saw the Chancellor announce a number of changes that will directly affect the leisure and hospitality sector this year. One of the more positive outcomes is the reform to business rates, which are set to fall for smaller, customer-facing businesses from April. A new banded multiplier system will replace the current approach, meaning that leisure and hospitality businesses with physical premises open to the public are likely to see some relief. But whilst businesses may be making cost savings when it comes to business rates, these newfound reserves are likely to be quickly spent elsewhere as a result of other Budget announcements. For example, the NMW and National Living Wage (NLW) will both be increasing in April, putting additional pressure on leisure and hospitality businesses – especially those that employ young people. Those that sell alcohol and milk-based drinks are also set to be hit by increased alcohol duty and sugar tax. Alcohol duty rates will increase to 3.66% in line with inflation, while sugar tax is being extended to milk-based drinks, including pre-packaged coffees and milkshakes. Businesses affected by this will need to consider how they fund this increased tax bill – either taking the hit themselves or passing the burden onto customers by increasing the cost of these items. With so many variables to consider for the year ahead, it’s never been more important for leisure and hospitality businesses to review their finances and ensure they’re well equipped for the year ahead. Duncan & Toplis provides accounting and business services specifically designed to support businesses in this sector, including budgeting, forecasting, payroll and tax planning. To find out more, visit www.duncantoplis.co.uk.
Caledonia Play: Scotland’s Timber Play Specialists
For more than 25 years, Caledonia Play has been designing and manufacturing high- quality wooden play equipment from its base in Kinross-shire. We are Scotland’s only independent timber play manufacturer, and the company is known for its craftsmanship, sustainability and innovative approach to outdoor play. Working across public parks, schools and privately owned destinations, Caledonia Play creates durable, imaginative environments where children can play, explore and grow. All products comply fully with British and European Safety Standards. Personal Service, Tailored Solutions Every project begins with listening and understanding the needs of each client. Caledonia Play works closely with all their customers to deliver bespoke play solutions that suit each site’s needs, budget and timescale. From consultation and design through to manufacture and installation, clients benefit from a professional, personal service and reliable delivery without compromise on quality. Timber Expertise and Sustainable Sourcing At the heart of Caledonia Play’s philosophy is an in-depth knowledge of timber. Our Managing Director – Jamie Bruce Jones – has a background in the timber industry. The Jones family business stretches back to 1838 when Mr James Jones started trading in timber and allied products. Jamie has applied his knowledge of timber to creating beautiful products for the outdoor play industry that are made to last. Jamie carefully selects slow grown, sustainably sourced wood which is pressure- treated and wax-impregnated for added durability. This dense, hard-wearing timber provides the strength, resilience, and longevity needed for outdoor play structures, while maintaining the natural beauty and tactile appeal of wood. By combining sustainability with engineering expertise, Caledonia Play creates play equipment that outperforms comparable products in both strength and resilience. This ensures the play equipment can withstand the UK’s varied climate while continuing to look and perform at its best for decades. “100% of our play structures are made from slow-grown timber, the bedrock of long-lasting playgrounds with low maintenance.” Showcasing the Double Tower Unit The Double Tower is a versatile play structure designed for children aged 5 to 14, ideal for all outdoor spaces. It features two 1.24 × 1.24 m square towers with a 1.5 m platform height, connected by a net rope bridge and complemented by a scramble net, climbing rock wall, solid steps with handrails, stainless steel slide, and a roof on one of the towers. A barrel tunnel sits under the rope bridge, adding extra fun and exploration. Constructed from robust treated timbers with stainless steel fixings and hot-dipped galvanised feet to protect against ground moisture, the Double Tower combines durability, safety, and imaginative play. Designing Play for Everyone Inclusive design is central to Caledonia Play’s ethos. The company creates welcoming play spaces for children of all ages and abilities, with options including wheelchair- accessible trampolines, swings and roundabouts. Each playground is designed as an experience – supporting physical development, creativity and social interaction in a safe, natural setting. “We design play spaces that welcome everyone and spark imagination.” Integrated In-House Production Caledonia Play’s fully in-house model sets it apart. Designers, engineers and installation teams work closely together, ensuring consistent quality, efficient project management and flexibility to meet client needs. This hands-on approach guarantees high standards from concept to completion. The Benefits of Natural Outdoor Play By championing natural materials and thoughtful design, Caledonia Play creates playgrounds that support physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection. Children are encouraged to climb, balance, explore and imagine in environments that are stimulating, inclusive and built to last. “Our mission is to build safe, sustainable, hardwearing, and low-maintenance play spaces that can be enjoyed by generations.” Contact Caledonia Play Caledonia Play LtdOld Mill, South Street, Milnathort, Kinross, KY13 9XB Tel: 01577 840570Email: sales@caledoniaplay.comWeb: www.caledoniaplay.com
Two top wins for Meadow Bay Villages at British Travel Awards 2025
Staff and the management team of the Meadow Bay Villages park group are celebrating after the company landed two top accolades at British Travel Awards 2025. Meadow Bay Villages was named as overall winner in the categories of Best Small Company for UK Family Holidays, and the Best Small Company for UK Short Breaks. Judges announced the result at BTA’s prestigious awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair, attended by senior tourism and travel industry figures from across the country. Based on nominations by almost half a million individuals, the BTA accolades are recognised as the most influential consumer-voted awards in the UK travel industry. The group’s chief executive Geoffrey Smith said everyone was “absolutely delighted” at the achievement, not least because the group has been operating for just 18 months. “To be recognised so early in our journey is incredible and reflects the commitment of our amazing team to providing outstanding holiday experiences. “We couldn’t be prouder to see their passion acknowledged in this way,” said Mr Smith. The four-strong group includes Billing Aquadrome in Northamptonshire which provides a relaxing countryside retreat in a tranquil lakeside setting. In the past 18 months, Meadow Bay Villages has invested £17 million in the park’s regeneration, providing a host of first-class leisure facilities for guests and holiday home owners. Also benefitting from the group’s substantial investment policies is Hayling Island holiday park in Hampshire where a range of new accommodation is on offer for all holiday budgets. It includes luxury platinum-grade holiday caravans with private hot tubs and new dog-friendly gold standard holiday caravans. Meadow Bay Villages also operates Golden Leas Holiday Park and Hollybush Farm Holiday Park, both located on the Isle of Sheppey. There is more information about the group and its parks, which are members of the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA), at www.meadowbay.com
