Glamping gain allows farmers to develop diversification

Farmers who have diversified into pop-up glamping have received a boost thanks to a change in regulations that has more than doubled commercial opportunities.

The previous 28-day limit on operating temporary sites for glamping, campervans and motorhomes has been extended to allow permitted development rights of 60 days.

With sunny and unseasonably warm weather predicted for October, farmers are expected to take advantage and recoup losses from a washout summer.

But a rural insurance expert is urging them to be aware of the risks.

“Glamping will inevitably involve members of the public setting foot on farmland,” said William Nicholl, Rural Client Director at Lycetts.

“Health and safety risk assessments, along with measures and procedures to ensure a safe environment, are therefore essential. Public liability is also a must, and insurers may request site inspections to ensure quality standards and requirements are being met.

“Furthermore, a longer glamping season may see farmers taking on staff, so Employers’ Liability cover must be in place.”

The expected drier and warmer weather conditions mean fire risk is also a serious consideration for those offering barbecues and fire pits as part of the glamping experience.

The new regulations, which apply to England only, are conditional on there being no more than 50 pitches, and having toilets and waste disposal systems in place.

Farmers who already operate pop-up camping sites are not required to seek extra planning permission, but they must notify councils of the opening dates in advance.

Nicholl said: “As the ‘cost-of-business’ crisis continues, farmers and landowners are understandably looking to increase diversification as a way of boosting revenue.

“However, a failure to protect against the risks can have devastating financial consequences, and potentially threaten livelihoods.

“It is therefore important to seek advice from experts who are experienced in the field.”