The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority has approved plans to introduce an Article 4(1) Direction to remove permitted development rights for 28-day camping, caravan and mobile home sites within the National Park.

The decision, made at the Authority’s meeting on Wednesday, December 11, marks a significant step in managing the impact of unregulated temporary camping on the National Park’s protected landscapes and ecosystems.

The new measures follow extensive public consultation, which revealed strong support for increased controls. The consultation highlighted concerns about visual impacts on the landscape, risks to biodiversity, and pressures on local infrastructure. Many respondents, particularly local residents, raised issues such as noise, traffic congestion, and other disturbances affecting those living near temporary camping and caravan sites.

Introducing the Article 4 Direction will allow the Authority to require planning permission for temporary 28-day camping, caravan and mobile home sites, ensuring that their location and operation are carefully managed to protect the National Park’s unique environment.

The Article 4 Direction, which will take effect on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, will include a transition period to allow landowners and site operators sufficient time to understand the new requirements and submit planning applications. Planning applications for these sites will not incur fees, and the Authority will aim to prioritise applications to minimise delays. Existing sites that have planning permission or those sites that operate under an exempted organisation certificate will not be affected.

A six-week public consultation on the Article 4 Direction in the new year will provide an opportunity for individuals and organisations to share their views on the proposed measures.

In addition, the Authority will engage with exempted organisations to develop a voluntary Code of Conduct, fostering a collaborative approach to safeguarding the National Park.

Further details on the consultation can be found at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/public-consultations.