Four Winds Plans Expansion to Meet Growing Demand for Glamping & Touring Pitches

4 weeks ago 4

A camping and bed-and-breakfast site in Fenland is seeking to expand its offerings with additional accommodations and amenities, aiming to enhance its year-round appeal and support local tourism. 

The owners of Four Winds, located in March, have submitted a planning application to add three glamping pods, four shepherd huts, and 24 touring caravan and tent pitches. The proposal also includes a new toilet block and modifications to site access.

According to a design and access statement prepared by agents Morton and Hall, the expansion could generate additional employment opportunities.

The owners, Hannah Ross and Debs Spencer, have operated the site for over three years and are looking to capitalize on their high occupancy rates, which peak at around 90% during the busiest seasons. 

“The growth would not only meet demand but would support the local economy and provide more visitors with an exceptional outdoor experience,” the statement noted in a report by Fenland Citizen.

Currently, Four Winds offers a mix of accommodations, including existing shepherd huts, a log cabin, and a bed-and-breakfast in the main house. 

The site also provides kayaking, canoeing, and pedalo rentals along the River Nene, which offers convenient access to the town center.

For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, the expansion reflects a broader trend of diversifying accommodation types to attract a wider range of guests. 

The ability to offer glamping options alongside traditional pitches can provide a more resilient revenue stream, particularly as consumer preferences shift toward unique and upscale camping experiences. 

Moreover, year-round usability of the new units could help mitigate the seasonal nature of tourism revenue.

Ross and Spencer’s application aligns with current planning policies that prioritize the protection and enhancement of tourism businesses. 

The proposed shepherd huts and glamping pods will be positioned in the northeast corner of the site, each with designated parking, mirroring the layout of the existing accommodations.

As more operators explore expansion opportunities, integrating premium camping options with traditional offerings could prove valuable in meeting evolving guest expectations while strengthening local tourism economies.

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