A CALL to keep an accommodation and reception caravan at a Ceredigion luxury eco-glamping site has been given the go-ahead despite an officer recommendation for refusal.
In an application recommended for refusal at the October meeting of Ceredigion County council’s development management committee, Ms Ahmed and Mr Hague sought retrospective permission to retain the caravan for a period of three years at the Oakvale, Llanwnnen, eco-glamping site.
It was recommended for refusal on the grounds the scale and nature of the glamping enterprise did not warrant permanent or temporary on-site residential accommodation and that “the continued presence of a caravan on site for residential accommodation does not support the delivery of placemaking principles which seek to secure high quality design and sustainable development that respects local context and contributes positively to the environment”.
It had been reported to committee rather than being decided by officer at the request of local member Cllr Euros Davies, saying the new owners needed the caravan to keep an eye on the progress on erection of the unbuilt Yurts units, supervision is required for the safety of the residents, the importance of the scheme to the local economy with the extension providing time for “the new owners the opportunity to give this project its best shot to continue with its progress and to expand”.
He added: “These applicants are not trying to abuse the system they just want time to make an honest go of their project. Planning and enforcement need to go after the illegal caravans in my Ward and support people that want to make a difference to the area and the county.”
Detailing the application, a report for members said: “The application is retrospective as the caravan is already in situ and occupied by the applicants. The caravan is sought to be occupied by the applicants as ‘mangers accommodation’ in association with the existing glamping site.”
It added: “The applicants bought the application site in 2024, and set to invest and update the glamping units to significantly raise the standard of accommodation provided, as well as further enhance the main site. The applicants seek a further three-year temporary consent to test the new business plan.”
It said a business plan going forward to 2027 included refurbishment, improving broadband connection, developing the business through social media and better booking facilities to increase occupancy rates, improving water quality of the lake and introducing wildlife, and establishing a part time mosaic art business offering products and services, such as wood, charcoal, animal feed, bread, milk, eggs, and fruit and veg.
At the meeting, members heard the applicants had bought “a moribund and inactive business” and the-now “top-end luxury holidays with real high level of guest support” had “already become a destination site,” bringing a “year-round benefit to the Ceredigion economy,” with exceptional reviews.
Following a call for temporary approval by Cllr Rhodri Evans, members backed a temporary approval.
