Planning restrictions have generally been seen as a double edged sword. On the one hand planning restricts the supply of new pitches for caravan holiday & park homes. This has the effect of restricting the supply and hence supporting or increasing the value of existing parks. On the other hand Park Owners wanting to expand regard the restrictions as unhelpful and a block to growth.

During conversations with Park owners I have posed the question whether the Government should encourage new permissions as a way of stimulating investment and employment in new Holiday Parks and have received a mixed response. Some Park Owners feel that, in the present climate there are enough new permissions i.e. lets fill the existing new pitches first.

I guess whether you are pro or against depend on your particular/local situation. I am not sure that driving power to a more local level will necessarily mean a more positive approach for Park Owners as in my experience many planning applications are rejected due to local objections.

Park Owners who build relationships with local government and communities may fare better under the new regime. However, I would not bet on there being a relaxation in planning restrictions any time soon. What are your views?

Len Bell, Head of the Northern Leisure Team at Montpelier Chartered Accountants, a specialist adviser to the holiday and caravan parks sector mailto: lbell@montpeliergroup.com.