Caravans as Permanent Dwellings

Residential Caravans

Policy HS12

Planning permission will be granted for the siting of caravans or mobile homes for use as dwellings where the development would have no material detrimental impact upon the landscape and where the following criteria are met:

1. where there is a proven need for temporary accommodation in association with an approved building project or to assist in the establishment of a new business enterprise; or
2. where the caravans or mobile homes can be sited within the confines of an existing caravan site and are required to meet a proven local need.

3.40 Caravans or mobile homes are generally considered to be unacceptable as permanent homes within the District. However, they may have a part to play in providing short term low cost accommodation for small households provided that the high quality of the environment of the District is safeguarded. This can be achieved by locating residential caravans or mobile homes within existing caravan sites. In assessing proposals particular regard will be had to the potential for loss of existing holiday accommodation within such sites.

3.41 Temporary permission for the residential use of a caravan may also be given in association with and for the duration of building works, conservation projects, the establishment of a new agricultural enterprise or other similar site-based project. Such a permission would be subject to satisfactory arrangements for the provision of water supply, effluent disposal and other domestic services and the protection of the residential amenity of any neighbours. There may also be a requirement for the caravan to be painted in an approved subdued colour or for appropriate screening to be introduced.

Gypsy Sites

Policy HS13

Proposals for the development of sites involving the stationing of caravans for occupation by gypsies and other travelling people will be assessed against the following criteria:

1. impact on the amenity of nearby residents;
2. impact on landscape, agriculture, nature conservation, archaeology or other interests of recognised importance;
3. adequacy of road access; and
4. capacity of the local infrastructure to service the development.

3.42 Government Circular 1/94 asks that local planning authorities should indicate the basis on which proposals to meet gypsy needs will be assessed. In Eden several sites already provide accommodation to meet this need. In the event that further proposals are forthcoming, Policy HS13 indicates the range of criteria which will form a basis for their evaluation.