A WEST Cumbrian council is looking to connect with businesses which could offer space to visiting motorhomes, in anticipation of an influx of visitors to Cumbria this summer.

Copeland Borough Council says it is hoping to "help manage an anticipated influx" of motorhomes to the area this coming summer, carrying holidaymakers keen for a seasonal break after the experience of lockdown.

To ensure the potential influx of visitors is properly accommodated, the council is hoping to be able to encourage suitable businesses with space to spare to offer temporary pitching sites for campervans and motorhomes.

This would help to prevent illegal camping in "inappropriate places where there are no facilities", the council says.

Copeland's mayor, Conservative Mike Starkie, explained: “After the first lockdown, Cumbria had a lot of motorhome owners visiting.

"Some camped in places where it was not appropriate and that caused problems.

"We want to make sure there is enough legal capacity for them in Copeland, so that these holiday makers do not need to fly camp."

Mr Starkie described businesses coming forward to offer a small amount of space for motorhomes as a "win-win" situation.

"Not only would it prevent fly camping and all the issues it brings, it would also allow businesses to capitalise on what is likely to be a popular market," Mr Starkie said.

“For example, a pub with some hard standing and, with our help, all the right permissions in place, could offer a couple of pitches and make some income.

"Hopefully those visitors might then eat in the pub, buy provisions locally or visit an attraction. We think it could benefit the whole tourism economy.

“It could also be an option for a campsite that currently only has tents, or a shop with extra outside space.”

Copeland Borough Council is reminding businesses that it can help advise on changes businesses need to make to accommodate campervans or motorhomes.

“There are planning considerations, possible environmental health issues, and there must be provision for things like the disposal of waste," Mr Starkie said.

“We would encourage people to get in touch and find out exactly what’s involved – it might be easier than they thought to develop their business in this way."

Businesses that would like support in looking into this option should contact the council’s Tourism Development Officer, Katie Read, at katie.read@copeland.gov.uk.

For free, detailed planning advice on a specific site, businesses should email devcontrol@copeland.gov.uk.