Lack of safety advice threatens staycation plans

Families’ staycation plans are in chaos over a lack of safety advice that could sabotage the reopening of holiday sites.

Caravan, camping and holiday parks were planning to reopen in the first week of July amid a surge in demand.

But owners are furious they have been given no safety advice and warned it will hit families’ plans to enjoy a break in Britain when the lockdown finally lifts.

Center Parcs has been forced to push plans for reopening back to mid July at the earliest amid the uncertainty and others are likely to follow suit.

A growing number of campsites have had to pause or cancel all tent bookings because operators are in the dark about what safeguards will be required.

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith called for the Government to set out its plans this week or risk a ruined summer. He said: ‘If campsites and caravan parks are not sure of the way ahead because of unclear guidance, then the Government has got to make a move on that. Not in three weeks’ time: They have got to get this advice clear this week.’

Martin Smith, of Campsites.co.uk, said: ‘Campsite owners don’t know if shower facilities are safe to open and what provisions they must put in place to protect their customers.

‘They need clear and definitive Government advice to open safely this summer.

‘Early warning of any restrictions and policies will really be essential. That’s really the key to whether the staycation boom actually happens or not.’ The advice is expected to mean many facilities such as playgrounds and children’s clubs will be closed while bars and restaurants may only operate as takeaways.

Most importantly, camping and caravan sites are worried they won’t be able to open showers and toilets.

The official tourism body Visit Britain is drawing up a guide for businesses on measures needed to offer safe holidays. There are hopes it will be published next week.

The website Coolcamping.com says its bookings for Cornwall in July and August are up 400 per cent on last year, with an increase of 300 per cent for Devon, 225 per cent for the Lake District and 220 per cent for Dorset.

Malcolm Bell, head of Visit Cornwall, said they had seen a clear demand for summer holidays but warned there would be distinct differences from previous years.

He added: ‘Visitors have to realise you just can’t do what you have done on previous occasions. It will be slightly different. You’re going to have to book a ticket ahead of time for attractions. If you want to go to a restaurant you’re going to have to make a booking ahead of time because capacity is going to be reduced if they do reopen.

‘Beach capacity will be up to individuals I’m afraid, if you turn up and you can’t keep two metres away it’s your responsibility not to do it. You’ll have to think carefully, plan well, book ahead.

‘Demand has been slightly lower for this summer. But we know there is a lot of pent up demand that will probably switch on as soon as they are told they are allowed.’

The British Holiday & Home Parks Association, which has 2,000 members, has warned of ‘staycation rationing’ because demand will outstrip supply. Spokesman Jon Boston said: ‘Parks and camping are the best safest option in the UK, but there is limited capacity.

‘They can’t magic up extra capacity… although some may ask local councils if they can stay open beyond the normal closure dates in October.’

Across Europe, most Center Parcs destinations have re-opened, with even pools accessible – albeit with social distancing restrictions.

But the firm has had to delay reopening in Britain, Center Parcs, said: ‘Our team is looking at every single activity we currently offer and we will need to find some new and creative ways to run some of them and unfortunately, there may be some that we just can’t operate in the first few weeks or so.’

Labour business spokesman Lucy Powell said: ‘It’s vital that ministers turn their attention to the hospitality sector, providing clarity and guidance so that businesses can plan to reopen in the coming weeks.’