Plans by several local councils to ban campervans and motorhomes from popular UK beauty spots have been criticised as 'short-sighted' by a lobby group. The Campaign for Real Aires (Campra) argues that such blanket bans are counterproductive both economically and environmentally, and that better facilities would render them unnecessary.
Last month, North Yorkshire Council made permanent a trial ban on motorcaravans parking overnight in coastal spots like Scarborough. Meanwhile, vehicles will be barred from the Falls of Falloch waterfall near Crianlarich, Stirling, when it reopens this summer. Cornwall Council is also consulting on proposals to ban overnight parking in car parks across the county, citing issues with multiple parking spaces, littering, and anti-social behaviour.
Campra warns that banning motorcaravans deters visitors who spend money in local economies and contradicts efforts to promote sustainable travel. A survey of 6,731 motorcaravan owners found that 88% are unhappy with the availability of overnight parking in desirable UK locations. Introducing European-style aires—designated stopping points—would encourage owners to visit and spend money in new areas, especially outside peak season, the group says.
Figures from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency show over half a million motorcaravans are registered in the UK. Campra also cites a 2023 Spanish report concluding that motorhomes have the lowest environmental impact of almost all tourism scenarios, considering carbon emissions from transport and accommodation.
Donald McDonald, founder and president of Campra, said: 'Blanket bans of motorhomes and campervans are short-sighted and counter-productive—ultimately affecting local economies and UK tourism. With more uncertainty than ever over travel abroad, it's important to think about options for people to holiday in the UK.'
