Big news for caravan lovers in Pembrokeshire! Castell Conin Campsite, nestled near Clynderwen, has hit a bump in the road. The site applied for a Certificate of Lawful Development, which would cement its status as a countryside haven for touring caravans and campsites. However, the bid has been turned down by Pembrokeshire County Council.


Why, you ask? Well, the crux of it is that while the site has indeed hosted caravans and tents for more than ten years, there have been a few breaches in site usage, too minor to meet the requirements for continuous use. In simpler terms, there just wasn’t enough evidence to show that the site has been consistently out of bounds of its existing permissions for a full decade.

According to a report, although there have been some temporary violations, these were not enough to prove a continuous breach over ten years. Meanwhile, the site still thrives with a certificate from the Camping and Caravanning Club, allowing up to five touring caravans/motorhomes and ten tents. So, while the certificate application may have fizzled out this time, the campsite still operates under its existing rights.
The council’s decision stems from complexities in land use laws and the need to prove uninterrupted activities outside permitted guidelines over a significant period. It’s a slight setback for Tony Powell and his team, who’ve been trying to secure the legal go-ahead for years.
So, what’s next for Castell Conin Campsite? For now, they’ll continue welcoming campers under existing permissions while deciding their next steps.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story and continue enjoying the beautiful Pembrokeshire countryside! If you’re a camping enthusiast, it’s a reminder of the intricate legal dance involved in keeping our beloved campsites running. Happy camping, everyone! 🏕️🌳