Parish council takes government to court over camp

A parish council is taking legal action over a decision to allow permanent camping and yurt accommodation at Bewl Water, on the Kent/East Sussex border.

Wadhurst Parish Council said the decision, made by the government's planning inspectors, went against legislation requiring public bodies to conserve the natural landscape.

In a statement the council said: "The government appears to be signalling to developers that any piece of our precious countryside is now fair game for major developments, regardless of the level of protection a site might have."

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has been contacted for comment.

The parish council statement said: "We believe that the Bewl Water decision undermines the new statutory protections designed to conserve and enhance these areas.

"We believe preserving the integrity of the High Weald National Landscape is essential for future generations and the diverse wildlife that calls it home. In particular we are committed to protecting the internationally important gull roost."

Claire Moore, chair of Wadhurst Parish Council, told BBC Radio Sussex: "The overnight accommodation brings noise and light pollution to what is a very tranquil and dark skies area.

"The gulls are easily disturbed by light and noise pollution.

"I agree people will think 'what's wrong with a little bit of camping?' But if we don't stand up and protect the national landscape, then where does it stop?"

The application had initially been refused by Wealden District Council in April 2024.

Wadhurst's case will be heard at the High Court on Wednesday and Thursday, with the council having received over £10,000 in donations towards its costs from local residents.

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