A glamping business operating illegally for eight years in Royal Victoria Country Park has applied for retrospective planning permission to legitimise its presence. Eastleigh Borough Council confirmed receipt of Bell Tent Glamping’s application, submitted by owner John Wild, following a complaint that exposed the site’s lack of formal approval.
Wild acknowledged the oversight in his submission, stating the business has “good intentions” and operates on county council land under a commercial contract. “I unreservedly apologise for this mistake,” he wrote, adding that the site’s structures are temporary and largely concealed from the main park area.
📋 By The Numbers
- 10 bell tents — Primary accommodation units on-site
- 6 camping pods — Secondary sleeping structures
- 16 extra cars — Peak-time traffic at a car park designed for thousands
The glamping site includes six camping pods, ten bell tents, and small service buildings designed to be towed, lifted, or dismantled. Shared facilities comprise a toilet and shower block, kitchen, laundry area, and storage space. Wild emphasized the operation’s community focus, employing local workers, hosting work-experience students from nearby schools, and running an annual week-long stay for low-income families.
| Facility | Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bell tents | 10 | Primary accommodation, temporary structures |
| Camping pods | 6 | Secondary sleeping units |
| Toilet/shower block | Shared | Existing infrastructure in park |
| Kitchen | Shared | Limited to small-scale use |
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the site was repurposed to house and assist homeless individuals as part of rehabilitation efforts. Wild described the operation as “sustainable and community-focused,” noting that rent payments to the county council help finance the country park. Traffic is capped at 16 additional cars at peak times in a car park built for thousands, and noise is strictly prohibited after 11pm.
💡 Pro Tip
Avoid retrospective planning applications by consulting the council early—even for temporary structures. Hidden sites can still face scrutiny if complaints arise.
Wild’s application argues the site’s minimal environmental impact and strong community ties justify approval. “We operate in a considered and considerate manner,” he stated, expressing hope the council will grant permission to ensure year-round success. A decision is expected on July 7.
Key Points
- ✅ Bell Tent Glamping applied for retrospective planning permission after eight years of unapproved operation
- ⚡ Site includes 10 bell tents, 6 pods, and shared facilities in a concealed area of Royal Victoria Country Park
- 💡 Owner John Wild cites community benefits, including homeless rehabilitation and local employment
The council’s planning committee will weigh the application against local policies and potential precedents for similar sites. Wild’s submission highlights the site’s alignment with the park’s family-oriented ethos, though officials may scrutinize long-term compliance with zoning laws. The outcome could influence other small-scale glamping operations seeking legitimacy in public parks.
