A CAMPSITE near Bude could soon be able to operate all year round if a planning application to Cornwall Council is successful.

The owners of Efford Downs Campsite on Vicarage Road in Bude are seeking permission to allow camping by tents and motorhomes throughout the year.

It would remain alongside the continued agricultural use of the wider land holding and would remain restricted to tents and motorhomes.

If approved, it would mean that the campsite, which has been in operation for 27 years and which currently operates for 16 weeks per year, would no longer be restricted on the time it can be open.

The applicant’s planning agent told Cornwall Council: “The application relates to an established campsite which has operated for approximately 27 years, and which has

“The present application seeks a fresh planning permission to enable the established camping use to operate throughout the year. It does not propose static caravans, touring caravans, holiday lodges or permanent residential accommodation. The proposal remains limited to tents and motorhomes.

“The wider landholding will continue to retain its agricultural use and the proposal therefore represents a form of rural diversification rather than the change of use of an agricultural holding.

“The site is suitable for a year-round camping use due to its relationship with Bude, the applicable tourism policies, the established nature of the use and the likely seasonal pattern of occupation.

“This applicant considers that the Council's previous assessment provides a strong basis for concluding that the site is suitable for the proposed year-round use.”

Within the application, it was also indicated that approval would help the land owner’s efforts in rural diversification and would remain alongside the agricultural use of the wider holding.

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

The plans are currently under consideration by Cornwall Council and can be viewed on its planning portal using reference PA26/06015.