Campsites could be allowed to open from JULY, says senior government minister
CAMPING holidays in the UK may be able to go ahead this summer, government ministers have predicted.
Despite fears that they may not be able to open until 2021, they could welcome tourists as soon as July.
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Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey told Sky: "Having come from Suffolk down to London, I know there are a lot of campsites that are very keen for people to come.
"Some of this is being carefully considered, recognising that we have a reduced outdoor transmission risk, that things like camping may well become suitable."
She added that it as a decision for "later this year, potentially in July" as infection rates need to stay down first.
English caravan sites are hoping to reopen this summer, with preliminary dates in July - but they are lobbying to open as early as June, in line with plans put forward for sites in neighbouring Wales.
However, previous concerns warned that camping sites may struggle to open due to the reliance on communal areas and bathrooms.
Caravan sites, however, are self-contained, making it much easier to social distance.
Jon Boston, spokesperson for the British Holiday & Home Parks Association (BH&HPA) told Sun Online Travel that parks could open in "phases".
He said that while communal areas such as cafes, swimming pools and bars will remain closed, the parks can reopen due to the self-contained nature of the facilities, as they all have their own kitchens and bathrooms.
He explained: "There is no definite date, but we hope for July."
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Visit Britain boss Patricia Yates says the crisis could actually boost British tourism and urged the nation to take a holiday later in the year.
She said: “To get British tourism up and running this summer, and this summer is hugely important is we need that domestic audience."
Haven has slashed prices for their caravan hols as they invite guests back on limited package deals, as pools and restaurants will remain closed.
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