Following concerns from campsite operators that controls on visitors with motorhomes coming to the Island are too strict, the Environment Department has agreed new and more flexible procedures. The decision follows discussions with the campsite operators, the Commerce and Employment Department, Condor Ferries and the Guernsey Border Agency (GBA).
At present motorhomes may be brought into Guernsey provided that the vehicles are not used at any time for human habitation and are stored under cover (garage or enclosed outbuilding) when not being driven on the island’s roads. Caravans are not permitted.
The proposed new procedures will see operators apply for planning permission to use part of their sites for motorhomes. If planning permission is granted, visitors will no longer have to get a separate permission from the Department for their motorhome. Instead, the campsite operator will control the issue of permits, which will be sent at the time of booking and used by Condor and the GBA to control entry. This will save time and effort for everyone involved.
The use of caravans and motor homes on the Island has been carefully managed since the 1970s. Unlimited use could result in damage to the Island’s unique environment, create traffic problems and lead to unsightly caravan sites being used for temporary workers. The new rules will balance the need to promote tourism while protecting Guernsey’s special character and heritage.
Director of Planning Control Services, Jim Rowles said:
“This proposed change in planning approach will continue to carefully regulate the use of caravans and motorhomes, while making a valuable contribution to tourism on the Island by allowing the limited sitting of motorhomes at the Island’s main campsites for overnight visitor accommodation.
Any planning permission will include conditions with limitations on the way the site can operate, and the number of vehicles permitted. Around 6 to 8 vehicles will be allowed on a specified part of each campsite. It is likely that any initial permission will be limited to a trial run period of two years so any problems can be identified and resolved. Any stay on the Island will be limited to a maximum of one month, as is also the case in Jersey which runs a similar scheme.
The Department will however continue to oppose the development of facilities for caravans, which are unsuited to the Island’s environment and infrastructure.”
The new system will apply to visitors from France and Jersey as well as from the UK. Planning applications from the campsite operators are expected very shortly. If these are granted, the new procedures can be in place for the main summer season. The new rules will be published on both the planning website as well as on http://www.visitguernsey.com/faqs.aspx
I think it shows that they now realize that they are missing out on a good little earner,but personaly I would not bother with them, they did not want us motorhomers for many years, and thats the way it can stay.
Add to that the overpriced ferry charges for large vehicles to get there,and what little interest when there, its a no brainer IMO.
Interesting, thanks for the heads up. I had no idea there were such restrictions there. We went via Condor a few years ago when we were tenters and spent half a day mooching around before catching the link up ferry to France. We're now in a small campervan so would consider a short stopover some time.
Smaller campervans OK, but I'm not sure I would like to drive some of the larger coachbuilt or A class motorhomes on a lot of Guernsey's roads or indeed meet one coming in the opposite direction. Am I right in thinking that on Jersey they've restricted it to just driving from the ferry to the site and back again with no touring around in between or am I imagining it?
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Guernsey agrees trial run for motorhomes
