Holiday Parks Set to Stay Open This Winter After Government U-Turn
Holiday parks and campsites across the UK are rejoicing. After months of uncertainty, the government looks set to give them the green light to stay open over winter. This comes after a fierce lobbying campaign by the British Holiday & Home Parks Association (BH&HPA).
Westminster and Scottish Governments Back Longer Seasons
The Westminster Government has now urged local authorities in England to fast-track winter opening applications. A similar message has been sent by the Scottish Government to councils north of the border.
Lord Greenhalgh, local government minister at Westminster, said he hopes councils will take a “sympathetic approach” to requests for longer seasons. Many parks battled huge losses this year after lockdowns.
Industry Boss Warns: Winter Survival Critical
Ros Pritchard OBE, Director General of BH&HPA, called the announcement a crucial lifeline.
“More than a third of all holiday parks and campsites are forced to close by October because of their planning consents – a moment many dread after being shut from March till July,”
she said. “Missing bank holidays and half-terms means lost income that seasonal businesses just can’t afford. Most of our members are smaller, family-run parks desperately clinging on for survival.”
Currently, only a quarter of parks have permission to operate year-round, leaving most hoping the winter extension will save their businesses and jobs.
Winter Breaks on the Rise as Families Embrace Off-Season Holidaying
Pritchard added that modern caravans, lodges, and glamping pods are fully equipped for cosy stays in chilly weather. Parks report a growing demand for winter breaks as families seek fresh-air escapes to beat the winter blues.
The BH&HPA also praised Scottish tourism minister Fergus Ewing MSP for backing the campaign, urging councils to “recognise the benefits” of letting seasonal businesses trade beyond their usual limits.
The association is now pressing the Welsh Government for similar support, representing around 2,200 parks across the UK.
With winter stays looking set to become the new normal, the UK’s holiday parks could be in for a much-needed boost after a tough year.
