Government had published a ministerial statement that encouraged local planning authorities to exercise their discretion in relation to planning conditions for caravan, campsites and holiday parks so that they could extend their season. The government has just updated that statement, which incorporates a Q&A, to include the following question:
“Can caravan occupants use their caravans as a permanent residence if they have no alternative accommodation (because of the impact of coronavirus)?
“The government is aware that there are people who for a variety of reasons do not currently have access to a permanent residence and may use holiday caravan parks for interim or main residential purposes. Whilst the government does not comment on any potential breach of licensing and planning conditions, our priority during the COVID-19 pandemic must be the safety of the public and the containment of the virus.
“The National Planning Policy Framework already emphasises that planning enforcement is a discretionary activity, and local planning authorities should act proportionately in responding to suspected breaches of planning control.
“Given the current situation, while local planning authorities must have regard to their legal obligations, they are encouraged to exercise their discretion and not seek to undertake planning enforcement action to ensure that wherever possible families and vulnerable people are not displaced at this time. However, careful consideration should be given where these sites have restrictions related to winter flood risk.”