West Dorset holiday park redevelopment plans submitted

A family's Volkswagen T4 campervan burst into flames while traveling through the New Forest near Long Lane, Hardley, on Sunday afternoon. Firefighters from Hardley and Beaulieu extinguished the blaze within 30 minutes, but the vehicle was completely destroyed. Owner Kelly Hall described the incident as 'devastating' and thanked members of the public who stopped to help. The cause of the fire is unknown.

Grantham Caravans reported turnover of £22.5m for the year to 30 June 2025, up from £18.8m, driven by growing demand for motorhomes. Pre-tax profit fell sharply from £296,000 to £67,000 as higher interest rates increased financing costs.

Plans to add 21 static caravans at Silver Sands Holiday Park in Lossiemouth, Moray, have been approved by planning officers, overriding 18 objections from residents and caravan owners. Critics cited strain on amenities like the swimming pool and clubhouse, as well as environmental concerns about coastal dunes. Officials ruled most objections as non-material to planning, noting the development is on grassland, not dunes, and that internal road management is a private matter for the operator.

A 33-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the theft of a motorhome in Kelso, Scotland. The incident occurred on June 20. He appeared at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on June 23.

The Big Love Weekender will take place from June 25 to 28 at Wild Rose Holiday Park near Appleby-in-Westmorland, hosted by Harrison Holidays. Over 50 new and pre-owned static caravans and luxury lodges will be on display, including the 2026 Galloway holiday lodge, with prices starting from £29,995. The park features an infinity pool, restaurant, play areas, and free snacks and drinks for visitors. Similar events are held simultaneously at four other Harrison Holidays parks across the UK.

Royal Victoria Country Park in Netley has reported criminal damage to gate locks and the removal of signage in fields reserved for organised caravan rallies. Nine locks had to be replaced. The park, owned by Hampshire County Council, temporarily locks these fields ahead of rallies to prepare them, a practice that has been in place since the 1980s and supports the park financially.