Coronavirus: Campsites in Wales reopen with strict regulations

BBC ^ | 25 July 2020 | BBC

[Beinglis23]

Holidaymakers can once again carry on camping in Wales - but it won't be as you remember it.

From Saturday sites with shared facilities are allowed to open, with strict rules and regulations, having missed most of the high season.

Businesses said they had been inundated with inquiries but it would not make up for lost trade during lockdown.

There had also been the expense of deep cleaning, adding social distancing and reducing pitch numbers, some said.

Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford warned holidaymakers they "must get used to some changes" to protect everyone from coronavirus.

"It's the responsibility of all of us to follow these new rules so we can keep ourselves and our loved ones safe," he said.

The British Holiday and Home Parks Association said it expected almost all of the 1,322 sites in Wales that offer shared facilities to open.

And Philippa George, who chairs the Forum for South East Wales Tourism, estimated 97% would be welcoming visitors.

Since the announcement sites would be allowed to reopen, her phone has been ringing off the hook.

"It has been ringing from half-seven to half-11 at night," Ms George said.

"People want a staycation.

"The people who ring, I've been discussing with them what we are doing to protect them and their safety.

"Without exception they have enjoyed that discussion and welcomed it."

Heritage Coast Camping is not opening until 31 July as it is not ready yet.

"With shared facilities it is difficult because you are talking about showers, toilets, washing up rooms," Ms George said.

To maintain social distancing this means no more than two people at a time can use them.

Sharon Evans runs Llandow Touring Caravan Park, which also accepts tents and is opening on Saturday.