LANDOWNERS are able to reap the rewards of a new rule regarding pop-up campsites this summer.

Under the so-called 28-day rule, anyone with sufficient space and facilities can open up a campsite for 28 days, without requiring planning permission.

The facilities required are toilet and shower facilities, though these can be temporary, mobile or could even exist for another purpose.

It has been frequently capitalised on by leisure businesses, such as campsites wanting to expand their capacity for the busiest month of the year, or by farmers or other businesses who want to make the most of demand to generate some extra income.

The rule-change came about in order to give a much-needed boost to the leisure and hospitality industries after their forced closure due to the pandemic, extending the 28-day rule to 56 days in 2020.

When this extension was put in place, an end date was not stipulated, so the extension currently remains in place.

While the extended 56-day period remains in place for the summer of 2021, the leisure industry is lobbying for this to be further extended to 72 days.

The argument from lobbyists is that these businesses have suffered another unexpected and extended closure and need the economic boost more than ever.

And it’s not only the owners of the pop-up campsites who stand to benefit – there are countless other businesses that rely on tourist trade to turn a profit – shops, pubs, outdoor activities and more.

With foreign summer holidays looking precarious, the domestic leisure industry is facing another bumper summer.

Stephen Richards, head of leisure at property agent Carter Jonas, said: “As anyone who has tried to book a staycation in 2021 will know, demand for holiday accommodation in the tourist hotspots of the UK are currently hugely outstripping supply.

“The excess demand for holidays means that popular tourist locations such as the South West, Lake District, Peak District, Cotswolds and North Wales will not have enough accommodation. These pop-up campsites will fill the gap and boost the rural economy after the difficult circumstances of last year.”

Temporary campsites are appearing across the county, such as Cool Camping's Pop-Up Somerset, in Wincanton - brand new for 2021.

Their website says: "Set on the edge of a Somerset village, the main attractions are relaxing on site and exploring the countryside.

"The 'big' sights of Somerset (Glastonbury, Wookey Hole and Cheddar) are close enough for day trips but you might just find yourself satisfied with your tent, big field and the smaller pleasures nearby; walking, wild swimming, gardens, a cidery and an artisan cheese maker to name just a few.

"Jonny, who runs this site, also managed operations for the luxurious Pop-Up Hotel at Glastonbury Festival for several years.

"In short, the guy knows how to create something out of nothing and then make it disappear again in a puff of campfire smoke."

Talking of Glasto, in lieu of this year's usual musical offering, a temporary campsite is being erected, fittingly named Worthy Pastures.

With no Festival taking place on Worthy Farm for a second consecutive year, campers are being invited to experience the farm like never before.

During the school holidays, from July 23 to August 31, the family-friendly campsite will welcome guests to get back to basics in nature, with a range of pre-erected bell tents and scout tents available to hire for 3, 4 and 5-night stays.

The website says: "Worthy Pastures will capture the essence of the Glastonbury Festival with its familiar style of signage, painted bins and décor, giving you the chance to explore the site’s famous landmarks and enjoy a range of on-site activities, as well as the host of nearby attractions Somerset has to offer."