Camping Car Park Email regarding Benefits to Local Villages

[Dart]

I was interested in the email we received from CCP today regarding the benefits of their aires to local villages. They gave an example of one village, Bruere Allichamps, with the benefits clearly set out by their deputy mayor. Now, if only our British mayors could see the article! Anyway, here's what he said:

18/6/2025​

Bruère-Allichamps: the CAMPING-CAR PARK area, a boost for the local economy​

In the heart of the Cher département, the commune of Bruère-Allichamps is quietly making a name for itself as a model for motorhome accommodation in France. Since 2017, the CAMPING-CAR PARKreception area, set up on the former municipal campground, has attracted many travelers every year in search of nature, heritage and reliable services. Roger Portmann, deputy mayor, looks back on a collaboration that began nearly ten years ago.

Positive, pragmatic cooperation​

"For several years now, we have been working with CAMPING-CAR PARKas a true partnership between the commune and the supplier," explains Roger Portmann. Although a few technical adjustments have been necessary over the years, the results are still very positive: the site is self-financing, and the revenues generated enable us to undertake local projects.

The very operation of the area reflects the fundamental values of CAMPING-CAR PARK:

• Ecological responsibility, with rigorous wastewater management, waste collection and connected facilities to control consumption.
• A virtuous economic model, enabling the commune to receive up to 2/3 of the sales generated by the site.
• Social utility, by attracting visitors who revitalize local businesses.

"The grocery store next to the rest area is doing very well, thanks to motorhome owners. We're seeing a change in behavior: travelers are stopping off, buying locally and taking an interest in the village", emphasizes the deputy.

Developments financed largely by the tourism industry​

The regular arrival of motorhome users and the increase in the number of visitors to the site have created a significant local economic dynamic. While the revenues generated directly by the site are important for the municipality, spending in local shops - grocery stores, bakeries and restaurants - also contributes to the municipal budget. This vitality has made it possible to undertake a number of projects, including the installation of children's play equipment and the study of a future City Stadium for the village's young people and adults. These facilities will help improve the quality of life for local residents, while supporting the development of responsible tourism.

A formula for streamlining municipal management​

With essential services available 24 hours a day (water, electricity, drainage, wifi), the site offers users comfort and autonomy, while limiting the impact on municipal finances. "Before, services were free, but this weighed heavily on the municipal budget. Today, the commune no longer has to bear this burden," notes Roger Portmann.

A green stopover, rich in heritage​

Located in a large wooded park, just 400 meters from the village, the Bruère-Allichamps caravan park offers a pleasant setting with 100 m² pitches. On the banks of the Cher river, walkers will appreciate the proximity of hiking trails and services: bakery, mini-market, bar-tabac, hairdresser and restaurants.

The commune itself is distinguished by its rich heritage:

• The Central France column, a geographical symbol.
• The well-preservedAbbey of Noirlac.
• Le Prieuré Saint-Étienne d'Allichamps, a listed historic monument.
• The castles of Chateaufer and Meillant.

Conclusion: a stronger local balance​

The CAMPING-CAR PARK model, far from being just a buzzword, has been put into practice here. The site contributes to the village's economic vitality, while blending soberly into the local landscape. "It's a formula that works, that relieves the town hall, and that contributes to the attractiveness of the village", concludes Roger Portmann.

A partnership that proves that, with the right tools, motorhome tourism can be a real opportunity for local areas.

FAQ - Bruère-Allichamps CAMPING-CAR PARK area​

‍Whatservices are available at the Bruère-Allichamps service area?
The service area offers drinking water, electricity, drainage, wifi and 24-hour access. Spacious pitches in a wooded setting.

What shops are within easy reach of the rest area?
Within 400 m of the rest area, you'll find a bakery, a mini-market, a bar-tabac, a hairdresser and restaurants, all of which contribute to the local economy.

What can you visit in Bruère-Allichamps?
Among the must-sees: the Centre de la France column, Noirlac Abbey, Saint-Etienne Priory and the Châteaux of Chateaufer and Meillant.

Is the site suitable for longer motorhome stays?
Yes. Its comprehensive facilities, natural environment and proximity to shops make it ideal for longer stays.

 

[HKF]

I'm just planning a trip, with nowhere particular in mind, so have decided to include this place. Thanks for posting!

 

[Purrfecttune]

This was our first ever Camping Car Park stay, last year on our first foray into Europe.

An absolutely lovely place to stay, huge tree and grassy area beside a river.

 

[Reallyretired]

This was our first ccp site some years back. A lovely site with some open parkland adjacent. We could walk the dogs direct from our pitch. As usual with ccp sites the wifi is only accessible within a few yards of the barrier.

 

[DBK]

We were there earlier this year. Nice place but if you are after night life look elsewhere. We weren't and enjoyed our stay.

Post #144 on this thread.

Two Back in France

White horses ✓ Black bulls ✓ Flooded fields with rice ✓ Stork on nest with storkling ✓ Flamingoes ✓ Vultures ✓ Bitey Mosquitoes ?

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[GJH]

Now, if only our British mayors could see the article!

Why not email all of them (and leaders of councils that don't have mayors) with a copy of the article and impress upon them how the benefits would outweigh the costs?
Email addresses are easily found from council web sites.

 

[Kups]

Why not email all of them (and leaders of councils that don't have mayors) with a copy of the article and impress upon them how the benefits would outweigh the costs?
Email addresses are easily found from council web sites.

Good idea but a major job unless you have access to a mailing list. These are the numbers involved.
There are 317 local authorities in England. These include county councils, district councils, unitary authorities, metropolitan districts, and London boroughs. In addition, there are 22 unitary authorities in Wales, 32 in Scotland, and 11 in Northern Ireland.

 

[Rog NotJane]

I would guess CCP (and CampRA) have that list and are trying to sell to those councils. It’s probably why they wrote this article.

Actually, as CamPRA seems moribund, I’m going to try and find out if CCP do have anyone in the UK.

 

[GJH]

Good idea but a major job unless you have access to a mailing list. These are the numbers involved.
There are 317 local authorities in England. These include county councils, district councils, unitary authorities, metropolitan districts, and London boroughs. In addition, there are 22 unitary authorities in Wales, 32 in Scotland, and 11 in Northern Ireland.

I know. I contacted all of them (together with several other public and private sector organisations) several times each when running my Motorhome Parking web site.
It is a major job but if one really wants councils to do something it is necessary to put the work in. Simply expressing a wish that it will happen on a forum thread will be likely to get nowhere.

 

[Rog NotJane]

Good idea but a major job unless you have access to a mailing list. These are the numbers involved.
There are 317 local authorities in England. These include county councils, district councils, unitary authorities, metropolitan districts, and London boroughs. In addition, there are 22 unitary authorities in Wales, 32 in Scotland, and 11 in Northern Ireland.

…and you don’t need to mail them all either. Why not send it to just your council (or their parking officer) or the ten nearest to gauge the response?

If you did want to spam every council, there is a list of their freedom of information addresses here. Some of these look like generic info@… others are specific but will be able to tell you the correct email to send it to.

GJH do you have a better list? Also, what’s your Motorhome parking site?

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[GJH]

@GJH do you have a better list? Also, what’s your Motorhome parking site?

It was a web site I ran from August 2006 until August 2019. It started out providing details of daytime parking places suitable for motorhomes (after we came up against a height barrier not long after buying out first van) but subsequently developed to include details of legal overnighting spots and other advice about motorhome parking (and its difference from overnight habitation).

Twenty years ago the government published a list of all council main email contacts but I don't know if they still do. The FOI Directory has more lists than the one you mentioned with an index Here. That doesn't include Ireland and the Isle of Man but it isn't a difficult job to find their contact details.

 

[hja]

I would guess CCP (and CampRA) have that list and are trying to sell to those councils. It’s probably why they wrote this article.

Actually, as CamPRA seems moribund, I’m going to try and find out if CCP do have anyone in the UK.

Campra is far from moribund. A few more campra aires just opening.

 

[Rog NotJane]

Campra is far from moribund. A few more campra aires just opening.

They don't seem to be very active on their forums. I've posed several times offering help and asking for support. Nothing.
If you know them could you put me in touch?

 

[NR]

It’s not rocket science. However, not only does the uk lack political will it has no ambition and for those with ambition it’s quickly extinguished by prohibitive costs faced by small business and increasingly so SME’s. I’d go as far as saying the uk is regressive in almost all areas.

 

[Rog NotJane]

I think that's a little harsh. I have got hold of Thanet's development plans and it specifically says they want to encourage motorhomes because we spend money and do so off season. Where I think (without much evidence other than comments on a few council web sites) the UK leads the world is nimbyism. Councils and businesses might want the revenue from motorhomes but locals don't want them.

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[GJH]

It’s not rocket science. However, not only does the uk lack political will it has no ambition and for those with ambition it’s quickly extinguished by prohibitive costs faced by small business and increasingly so SME’s. I’d go as far as saying the uk is regressive in almost all areas.

Given the experience of running my web site I would say that it is more a case of the majority of the people of the UK not interested in having aires and the majority of those who do not being sufficiently interested to do anything about it by lobbying those who can provide them.

 

[Hawkstone]

I would guess CCP (and CampRA) have that list and are trying to sell to those councils. It’s probably why they wrote this article.

Actually, as CamPRA seems moribund, I’m going to try and find out if CCP do have anyone in the UK.

They do have the Union flag on their boards in France so possibly looking.

 

[L' Hobo]

I was interested in the email we received from CCP today regarding the benefits of their aires to local villages. They gave an example of one village, Bruere Allichamps, with the benefits clearly set out by their deputy mayor. Now, if only our British mayors could see the article! Anyway, here's what he said:

18/6/2025​

Bruère-Allichamps: the CAMPING-CAR PARK area, a boost for the local economy​

In the heart of the Cher département, the commune of Bruère-Allichamps is quietly making a name for itself as a model for motorhome accommodation in France. Since 2017, the CAMPING-CAR PARKreception area, set up on the former municipal campground, has attracted many travelers every year in search of nature, heritage and reliable services. Roger Portmann, deputy mayor, looks back on a collaboration that began nearly ten years ago.

Positive, pragmatic cooperation​

"For several years now, we have been working with CAMPING-CAR PARKas a true partnership between the commune and the supplier," explains Roger Portmann. Although a few technical adjustments have been necessary over the years, the results are still very positive: the site is self-financing, and the revenues generated enable us to undertake local projects.

The very operation of the area reflects the fundamental values of CAMPING-CAR PARK:

• Ecological responsibility, with rigorous wastewater management, waste collection and connected facilities to control consumption.
• A virtuous economic model, enabling the commune to receive up to 2/3 of the sales generated by the site.
• Social utility, by attracting visitors who revitalize local businesses.

"The grocery store next to the rest area is doing very well, thanks to motorhome owners. We're seeing a change in behavior: travelers are stopping off, buying locally and taking an interest in the village", emphasizes the deputy.

Developments financed largely by the tourism industry​

The regular arrival of motorhome users and the increase in the number of visitors to the site have created a significant local economic dynamic. While the revenues generated directly by the site are important for the municipality, spending in local shops - grocery stores, bakeries and restaurants - also contributes to the municipal budget. This vitality has made it possible to undertake a number of projects, including the installation of children's play equipment and the study of a future City Stadium for the village's young people and adults. These facilities will help improve the quality of life for local residents, while supporting the development of responsible tourism.

A formula for streamlining municipal management​

With essential services available 24 hours a day (water, electricity, drainage, wifi), the site offers users comfort and autonomy, while limiting the impact on municipal finances. "Before, services were free, but this weighed heavily on the municipal budget. Today, the commune no longer has to bear this burden," notes Roger Portmann.

A green stopover, rich in heritage​

Located in a large wooded park, just 400 meters from the village, the Bruère-Allichamps caravan park offers a pleasant setting with 100 m² pitches. On the banks of the Cher river, walkers will appreciate the proximity of hiking trails and services: bakery, mini-market, bar-tabac, hairdresser and restaurants.

The commune itself is distinguished by its rich heritage:

• The Central France column, a geographical symbol.
• The well-preservedAbbey of Noirlac.
• Le Prieuré Saint-Étienne d'Allichamps, a listed historic monument.
• The castles of Chateaufer and Meillant.

Conclusion: a stronger local balance​

The CAMPING-CAR PARK model, far from being just a buzzword, has been put into practice here. The site contributes to the village's economic vitality, while blending soberly into the local landscape. "It's a formula that works, that relieves the town hall, and that contributes to the attractiveness of the village", concludes Roger Portmann.

A partnership that proves that, with the right tools, motorhome tourism can be a real opportunity for local areas.

FAQ - Bruère-Allichamps CAMPING-CAR PARK area​

‍Whatservices are available at the Bruère-Allichamps service area?
The service area offers drinking water, electricity, drainage, wifi and 24-hour access. Spacious pitches in a wooded setting.

What shops are within easy reach of the rest area?
Within 400 m of the rest area, you'll find a bakery, a mini-market, a bar-tabac, a hairdresser and restaurants, all of which contribute to the local economy.

What can you visit in Bruère-Allichamps?
Among the must-sees: the Centre de la France column, Noirlac Abbey, Saint-Etienne Priory and the Châteaux of Chateaufer and Meillant.

Is the site suitable for longer motorhome stays?
Yes. Its comprehensive facilities, natural environment and proximity to shops make it ideal for longer stays.

Why not send it to a few of your local Town Councils marked for 'The Attention of the Mayor' and your County might become the first Motorhome Friendly County in Britain?

Edit: Note to self, read the full thread before posting!

 

[NR]

Given the experience of running my web site I would say that it is more a case of the majority of the people of the UK not interested in having aires and the majority of those who do not being sufficiently interested to do anything about it by lobbying those who can provide them.

It’s only ever going to be of interest to the Motorhome/camper fraternity, It isn’t unreasonable to expect councils to be a bit more entrepreneurial in this high growth area.

 

[Rog NotJane]

As I say, I think some councils are looking at this. Sample of one: Thanet council's new parking strategy does include references to Aires

See this post for details https://www.motorhomefun.co.uk/forum/threads/margate-promenade-rip.324424/post-6708737

Thanet are not a progressive council either.

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[Purrfecttune]

What gets me is that owning a MH/camper is such a growth industry at the moment.

I like watching and listening to quiz shows and regularly hear contestants stating that they would like to spend potential winnings on a camper van.

It’s not something that will go away soon and it seems incredible to me that so many councils ignore such financial potential which at the same time would address many of the complaints about parking issues from their constituents.

Stopping the increase of MH parking with bans and height restrictions reminds me of the old fable about King Canute!

 

[GJH]

It’s only ever going to be of interest to the Motorhome/camper fraternity, It isn’t unreasonable to expect councils to be a bit more entrepreneurial in this high growth area.

As you say, Aires are only ever going to be of interest to the Motorhome/camper fraternity - about half a million adults or so out of a population of 54.3 million. What is even more reasonable is to expect councils to balance all the competing demands for services and make decisions based on what they judge to bring the most benefit to the residents and businesses of their area. That will vary widely between councils, and even within council areas.
For instance, a thread the other day mentioned Saltburn and the fact that Redcar & Cleveland Council allow unrestricted overnight habitation in some places but not others (even after their failed experience with Guisborough, one of the first in the country, about 16 years or so ago).

I see you are from Lincoln and that is another good example. For many years the council allowed overnighting in places but eventually found that the costs outweighed the benefits.
If you think they got it wrong and should be a bit more entrepreneurial why not take it up with them by proving it?

 

[TwistNShout]

What gets me is that owning a MH/camper is such a growth industry at the moment.

I like watching and listening to quiz shows and regularly hear contestants stating that they would like to spend potential winnings on a camper van.

It’s not something that will go away soon and it seems incredible to me that so many councils ignore such financial potential which at the same time would address many of the complaints about parking issues from their constituents.

Stopping the increase of MH parking with bans and height restrictions reminds me of the old fable about King Canute!

Possibly, one example that springs to mind is Hayling Island near Portsmouth. Overnight stays in one of the beach front car parks grew more and more popular, unfortunately a few parked right at the front, side on for days at a time restricting the view for others. There were also a couple of fires (probably incorrectly blamed on overnight campers). So a few years ago (after a lot of complaints from residents) they banned overnight stays and there is a blanket high charge for campers to park during the day, from memory cars are a pound or two an hour campers/MHs are thirteen no matter how long you stay. The result is that campers have to go to campsites or visit elsewhere, we haven't been back for years.