Lancing Caravan Park Granted Permission for Year-Round Operation

Eastern Sands Caravan Park in Lancing has been granted permission to operate throughout the year, following a decision by Adur and Worthing Councils.

The beachfront park, located south of the A259 and fronting Lancing beach, previously operated under a 1981 planning condition restricting occupancy to March 1 to October 31. During the winter months, caravans were only allowed to be occupied for a total of 30 days for maintenance purposes. However, an investigation revealed that several caravans had been used year-round for over a decade.

The council’s decision was based on evidence, including bank statements and letting agreements, proving that four caravans had been continuously occupied during the restricted period. Under planning law, this long-term breach made the use lawful, leading to the issuance of a Certificate of Lawfulness.

Adur and Worthing Councils concluded that the evidence demonstrated, on the balance of probability, that the park had been in continuous operation during the winter months. The certificate, granted on January 16, officially allows the 40-unit park to operate year-round, legitimising its long-standing use outside the original planning conditions.