Big changes in camping rules in Wales on the way

THE Welsh Government has published major changes on camping rules in Wales - with a mixed response from the sector.

- By OWEN HUGHES Chief Reporter [e-mail]

During the pandemic the number of days permitted for a popup campsite before planning was needed was increased from 28 to 56 days in Wales.

This ended in the country in 2022 - reverting to the previous 28 days. Across the border in England, the UK Government permanently extended it from 28 days per year to 60 days.

The Welsh Government consulted on this back in 2021 but then failed to make any decision and launched a fresh consultation in April this year.

Landowners, camping groups and farmers have appealed for the same rules as in England to help boost the tourism economy.

Now the Welsh Government have put forward their planned changes to the rules - which should come into place next year.

On the positive side for the tourism sector they have agreed to extend permitted rights for large parts of the countryside to 60 days - with no maximum limit to pitches.