Tourism and economy bosses have welcomed proposals for a glamping site in Dunkirk.

An application has been submitted to create a camp overlooking rolling countryside at Brook Farm in Denstroude Lane, between Canterbury and Faversham.

The owner already operates camping on the land under a temporary 56-day provision introduced by the government following lockdown.

Now they are asking for permission for a formal change of use of the site to allow glamping, the stationing of caravans, and a mobile cafe between March 1 and September 30, and from December 1 to January 5.

The application has gained the support of Swale Borough Council's economy and community services manager Lyn Newton, who says it will provide an "unusual and quirky" accommodation offer to visitors to the area.

The proposal also includes the conversion and extension of an existing stable block to provide a site office, store, toilet and shower block, and use of a shepherd’s hut for holiday accommodation.

The south east corner of the site would have bell tents for glamping, and an area in the east reserved for caravans with four electric hook ups.

In the centre of the campsite would be three animal pens for chickens and goats, as part of the overall camping experience.

Promoting the application, agents say: "Camping is inherently linked to the countryside and rural areas, with the attraction being the enjoyment of the countryside.

"The proposed development is therefore by definition a common and accepted feature of the countryside and would not be incongruous with the rural surroundings.

"In addition, the scale of the proposal means the camping and associated facilities are contained within a small area of land that is well-screened."

They also point to the lack of any issues while the camping has been operating under the temporary planning licence, which expires on December 31.

Mrs Newton adds: "Its rural setting will lend itself to those seeking a ‘get away from it all’ holiday and support those who particularly enjoy outdoor holidays and support walking and cycling, in particular."

This week, no formal objections to the application had yet been registered.

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