Forestry England to take control of 10 New Forest campsites after buying out partner Camping and Caravanning Club
TEN camp sites based in the New Forest have been bought up by Forestry England in a deal that will see the authority take charge of them from 2023.
Forestry England (FE) and Forestry and Land Scotland have bought out its former majority partner, the Camping and Caravanning Club, in the Camping in the Forest (CiTF) business.
It operates 16 sites across England and Scotland – making the 10 New Forest sites, which include Holmsley, Roundhill and Hollands Wood campsites, the bulk of the portfolio.
Craig Harrison, FE’s deputy surveyor of the New Forest said: "These campsites in the heart of the New Forest provide a key way for people to connect with and appreciate nature.
"Taking greater control of these will allow us to continue to offer this experience and support local businesses, whilst working more closely with our local partners to plan and develop their future."
In its announcement FE said although it purchased the 72% controlling shareholding, "to ensure a seamless transition" the campsites will still be operated by the club this year.
FE said the buyout means its England and Scotland divisions can separately manage its future national forest camping offer amid a rise in staycations, and "make possible the potential expansion of the network of campsites beyond existing locations".
The development comes in the wake of controversy over the camping club’s stewardship of local sites following the end of the first lockdown.
At the time it refused to open campsites despite the government encouraging people to get out and about and kickstart the UK economy – a decision which was challenged by minority partner FE.
FE chief executive Mike Seddon said: "This is an exciting time for Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland to develop the future camping provision in the forests we care for.
"We are looking forward to working closely with our partners at the Camping and Caravanning Club while they operate the CiTF campsites in the year ahead as we welcome back campers to our sites for the start of the camping season."
He continued: "This commitment enables us to plan for the future. Across the nation’s forests Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland will be better placed to provide overnight stays in beautiful forest locations, helping make memories that enhance health and wellbeing."
Sabina Voysey, the Camping and Caravanning Club director general, added: "We’re pleased to be leaving the business in such a strong position, and the club will work closely with Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland to ensure the transition period is as seamless as possible for CiTF’s valued customers."
