Glamping Greenlight: Q&A with Planning and Ecology Expert, Vicki Pettigrew
Planning a glamping site can feel like navigating a dense forest of policies, permits, and paperwork. That’s where Vicki Pettigrew, an experienced ecologist and planning consultant, comes in. With 15 years in the field, she helps landowners cut through the red tape, understand the process, and make informed decisions. We visited her very own glamping site, Big Skies, in the Cotswolds to get a better understanding of the support she can offer others looking to start-up!
In this Q&A, she shares expert insights on overcoming common planning challenges, budgeting wisely, and how low-impact structures -like Tree Tents - can fit into the planning system. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the process, Vicki’s advice will help you stay on the right path.
What inspired you to start your freelance consultancy for glamping planning applications?
With 15 years of experience as an Ecologist working in planning departments across Gloucestershire and Hampshire, I’ve worked alongside planners on a huge variety of developments, from major housing projects to smaller rural schemes. Along the way, I’ve gained valuable insight into how the planning system works and how applications are assessed.
When I set up Big Skies - Cotswold Glamping, I realised how overwhelming the planning process can be for landowners, especially those unfamiliar with policy, constraints, and the technical aspects of an application. My goal isn’t just to guide people through the system but to empower them to make informed decisions; helping them understand planning policy, potential constraints, and how issues can be mitigated. This way, they can budget wisely, plan effectively, and know when to bring in expert support for specific aspects of their project.
What are the biggest challenges landowners face when applying for planning permission for a glamping site?
The key challenges include:
- Navigating planning policies - Understanding national and local policies, particularly in protected areas like AONBs and Green Belt land.
- Environmental and ecological impact - New requirements like Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) mean applications need to demonstrate how they will enhance, not just preserve, local wildlife and habitats.
- Infrastructure considerations - Road access, parking, utilities, and waste management all need to be factored in.
- Managing local concerns - Noise, traffic, and visual impact can lead to objections if not addressed early.
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Budgeting effectively - Without a clear understanding of the planning process, applicants may underestimate costs or seek professional support at the wrong stage.
How does your background in ecology and planning help you navigate the application process?
Having worked for 15 years as an Ecologist in various planning departments across Gloucestershire and Hampshire, I understand how planners think and what they look for in an application. Many applications struggle due to environmental concerns, so I help landowners identify potential issues early and find ways to mitigate them. My role is to simplify the process, helping applicants approach their application strategically - so they know what’s achievable, what challenges they might face, and when to bring in specialist help.
Are there any common misconceptions about planning applications for glamping sites?
Yes, a few common ones:
"Glamping doesn’t need planning permission." All glamping set ups do require planning consent or an exemption camping licence if they are being used for paying guests. This is because you are changing the use of the land from agricultural/ forestry to leisure and tourism.
"If my land isn’t in a protected area, I’ll get approval easily." Planning decisions consider more than just location - issues like ecology, infrastructure, and community impact all play a role but also is your site a suitable site for tourism, is it sustainable.
"I can submit an application and see what happens." Without proper preparation, applications are more likely to fail or face delays. A well-planned approach can save time, money and disappointment.
What are the key considerations for making a glamping project more likely to gain approval?
Understanding planning policies - Knowing how national and local policies apply to your land, does your local authority welcome holiday accommodation and camping.
Site suitability - Considering access (Highways can be a tricker than you think), drainage, landscape impact, and sustainability.
Early engagement - Addressing potential concerns from the council and local community before they become objections. It could be a good idea to discuss your plans with your Parish Council and your Local Council Member.
A strong environmental strategy - Demonstrating positive contributions to biodiversity and landscape character.
Realistic budgeting - Identifying where to invest in professional support and where DIY research can be effective.
How can sustainable and low-impact structures, like Tree Tents, fit into the planning process?
Structures like Tree Tents can be considered less intrusive forms of development and can align well with planning policies - if they are:
- Low-impact (avoiding heavy infrastructure like concrete bases).
- Environmentally beneficial (incorporating biodiversity enhancements).
- Sustainably managed (using off-grid solutions for energy and waste).
- Well-integrated into the landscape rather than appearing intrusive.
Many councils favour low-impact, sustainable tourism, but it’s important to present a clear case for how the project will fit within policy requirements. The main issues to consider will be people using the site by causing disturbance to wildlife and infrastructure for getting in and out of the site.
What advice would you give to landowners considering a glamping project but unsure where to start?
Understand local planning policies – Researching the planning rules in your area can help avoid surprises and unnecessary expenses.
Assess the land’s suitability – Factors like access, topography, ecological constraints, and infrastructure play a big role in feasibility.
Think long-term – A successful glamping project isn’t just about getting planning permission; it needs to be financially viable and sustainable.
Explore alternative routes - Some structures, such as tree tents, may be considered acceptable under exemption organizations like Wanderlust Camping Club, The Greener Camping Club, Woodland Champions, and Campfire Companions. These organizations can sometimes offer a simpler route to operating legally without needing full planning permission.
Plan for sustainability - Demonstrating environmental benefits (such as biodiversity enhancements and off-grid solutions) can strengthen an application.
Seek impartial advice early - Knowing what’s possible, what challenges you might face, and when to bring in expert support can save time, money, and frustration.
If you’d like support with your glamping planning application and ecology process, reach out to Vicki at vicki@victoriapettigrew.com or connect with her on LinkedIn here
