Sussex Glamping Proposal Seeks Approval for High-End Pods Near Hastings

A planning application has been submitted for a small-scale glamping development in the Sussex countryside, aiming to introduce three high-end glamping pods on an unused field near Hastings. 

The proposal, validated by Rother District Council on February 21, seeks to provide a new accommodation option under the name “Hygge Retreat.”

According to the application, the site is intended to operate year-round and cater to tourists seeking a countryside escape. The glamping pods would be connected to a private package treatment plant and soakaway, according to a report by The Argus. 

The proposal highlights the growing demand for rural accommodation, stating, “Demand for this type of rural accommodation is high throughout the country, which has also been shown to be true of other glamping sites within Rother and East Sussex.”

For outdoor hospitality professionals, the development underscores the increasing market interest in nature-based accommodations and the potential for glamping businesses in rural areas. 

The application emphasizes the importance of location for success, noting that a countryside setting is vital for attracting guests seeking a peaceful retreat. 

The document further asserts that the site will be discreet and sustainable, describing the project as “small-scale” and designed to blend into the surrounding landscape.

The proposed glamping site is set back from residential properties, with the closest dwelling approximately 130 meters away. 

The application assures that “no harm will come to nearby properties concerning residential amenities” and that natural vegetation will provide screening from public roads and nearby homes.

Industry stakeholders may find value in the site’s design approach, as the glamping pods are classified as temporary structures that meet the legal definition of a caravan under the Caravan Act. 

This classification can offer regulatory advantages for developers navigating planning applications.

The application suggests that the site will bring economic benefits by drawing tourists from across the UK and supporting local businesses. The full plans are available for review on the Rother District Council website under reference RR/2025/202/P.