Bosses at a top-rated glamping site based in a highly protected area have unveiled plans for big changes - triggering a wave of public support.

Owners of Chitty Chitty Camping launched a planning bid for five permanent, luxury glamping ‘pods’ in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Canterbury after two years of setbacks.

Nathan and Becky Young – alongside her parents Anne and John Wainwright – have run the accommodation near Chislet since 2020, scoring five out of five stars on Facebook and 4.9 on Google.

If Canterbury City Council (CCC) approves the proposals, the new pods would overlook the rolling countryside and replace the current four tee pee tents.

Mr Young, 46, described the painstaking process the team embarked upon to draw up the £100k project on land with some of the highest levels of protection.

“We have four tents but we're only allowed to trade under permitted development for 30 to 60 days of the year, hence why when it took off we put planning in to change the use of the land,” he said.

“We've been going to and fro for nearly two years now.

“We had to take out an application because it wasn't quite right, and then we decided to change it and do it up the top where the views are just absolutely spectacular.

“One of the biggest things we had to do was an ecology report.

“Because it’s an area of outstanding natural beauty it’s very sensitive.”

Now, the family - who bought the property 18 years ago - are hoping to secure permission and get going with the scheme.

It will allow them to open 365 days a year, as the new rooms will have adequate heating.

They were expecting backlash when the application was submitted, however, the reaction has been quite the opposite.

The dad-of-three added: “I think the trouble is our neighbours are all sort of retired.

“I feel a lot of people don’t like change and we have had a couple of letters objecting.”

However, almost all of the 24 comments on the application are positive.

Mrs Young, 44 explained: “I think we knew people liked the business.

“I’m glad they got behind us.”

Neighbour Ian Bubb commented: “The change of use of the land allowing the creation of holiday accommodation will attract new visitors to the area.

“Such visitors will bring revenue to a number of local small businesses, supporting the local community and helping to sustain needed employment in the area.”

Similarly, happy customer Janice Beukes wrote: “As a previous user of this glamping site, I support the enhancement to include the pods.

“The peace, tranquility and space to relax in nature is so needed in our busy lives.

“We enjoyed the walks and making use of the nearby pub for our meals.

“The owners are not only friendly and helpful - keeping the area clean and private - but clearly show an appreciation of the nature all around.

“I fully support this venture.”

Mr Young was prepared for a negative backlash but suspected people would come forward with their support, and stressed they discourage unwanted noise.

His mother-in-law Anne, 72, added: “We tell people no loud noises, respect our neighbours and quiet time after 10.

“We want it to be quiet for us too.”

They believe the good reviews are owed to the countryside and views around them, as well as always being on hand if anything is needed.

Each pod will have a log burner and a hot tub.

They will be surrounded by trees, shrubs and hedgerows with eco toilets that treat the water on site.

Each will cost roughly £20,000 to buy and fit, and a night's stay is expected to be around £150.

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

If plans progress the family hope to have them up and running for the Easter holidays.