Dockray Meadow Near Lamplugh: Developer Appeals Refusal of 44 Static Caravans

A developer has appealed against the Lake District National Park Authority's (LDNPA) refusal of plans for 44 static caravans at Dockray Meadow Caravan Park, near Lamplugh, the Times and Star reports.

Background to the application

Eurotrading NE Ltd applied to change the use of the site from a 53-pitch touring caravan park to a 44-pitch static caravan site, with the redundant former reception building removed. The Caravan and Motorhome Club closed the touring park at the end of the 2024 season, citing poor performance and a lack of members, according to the paper.

The News and Star reported in June that planning officers had recommended approval. However, the authority's development control committee voted eight in favour of refusal, with one abstention, at its meeting on 3 June. Members questioned whether the club's closure showed there was insufficient demand for touring accommodation, and the refusal notice said the former operator's decision was "not considered to be a fair indication of the demand for this type of accommodation in the locality".

Committee members also questioned how individually owned static caravans would be prevented from becoming permanent homes. Lamplugh Parish Council opposed the application, and its chairman, Roger Braithwaite, described the plan at the June meeting as "an absolute sea-change of use for this land".

What the appeal says

In a statement of case dated 6 October, planning consultancy Lichfields says: "It could be argued that the touring caravan site has already been lost given it closed in 2024." It adds that "the proposals have always been for short-term holiday use only".

The Times and Star reports that a newly submitted operation and management plan includes:

• a site manager and maintenance arrangements
• a register recording visitors' home addresses and lengths of stay
• detailed park rules, to be drafted before the site opens

The appeal also points to other accommodation in Lamplugh parish, including the neighbouring Inglenook static caravan park, and argues there is further caravan and camping accommodation within 10km. The paper notes that the authority's policy guidance defines the relevant local area as the parish boundary.

The appeal, reference 6017378, is being considered through written representations. No decision had been reported at the time of writing. The original application is listed under LDNPA reference 7/2025/4077.

Why it matters to owners

The case shows how a planning authority may weigh the loss of touring pitches and the holiday-only occupancy of static caravans when a site changes use. We will follow the outcome of the appeal.

Thinking of selling your static caravan or lodge?

If you own a holiday static caravan or lodge and are considering a sale, Static Caravan Buyer offers a free, no-obligation valuation, and we charge no commission when we buy. We can also help with the park paperwork. Payment is made on collection day before the caravan is loaded.

You can read our guide to selling privately or to a trader, or call us on 0800 644 5000.