A health and safety warning has been issued to farmers in the region taking advantage of the relaxation in legislation relating to temporary glamping sites.
One year on from a law change allowing English farmers to profit more easily from glamping revenues, a rural insurance expert is reminding them of health and safety requirements relating to “pop-up” sites.
The law, which came into force on July 26, 2023, allows landowners in England to operate a temporary camping or glamping site for up to 60 days without planning permission.
Rupert Wailes-Fairbairn, of rural insurance risk specialist Lycetts, said: “Although this significantly reduces the burden of paperwork and planning for North East farmers looking to run simple, pop-up campsites, they still need to be aware of the potential pitfalls of launching new business ventures before breaking ground.”
Glamping bookings rose by 67-per cent last year, with demand in the UK at an all-time high as people seek to get back to nature without breaking the bank.
Mobile glamping structures such as yurts and bell tents which can be easily moved are not normally considered permanent structures and can provide a lifeline for struggling farmers looking for additional revenue streams.
“Inviting members of the public onto your farmland makes written health and safety risk assessments, along with measures and procedures to ensure a safe environment, an essential consideration at the design stage,” said Mr Wailes-Fairbairn.
“This would include creating adequate boundaries between the working farm and public facilities, appropriate signage, hygiene facilities, emergency procedures including evacuation plans and the safe separation of visitors from animals and machinery.”
Farmers should also regularly inspect and maintain structures, pathways, and communal areas to prevent accidents and claims.
This includes checking the stability and storm-proofing of temporary structures.
“Public liability insurance is also essential, and insurers may request site inspections to ensure that quality standards and requirements are being met.”
He added that some farmers turning to glamping as an alternative source of revenue for the first times may have to employ staff for the first time.
This brings with it a new requirement for employers’ liability cover.
More information is available via www.lycetts.co.uk/insurance-services/rural/farm/.
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