Creating a new CL

We are keen users of the 5 van sites of both the clubs and have no need for EHUs from March through till the end of October. Outside those dates it is usually too challenging for my solar system and weatherwise my wife.

We indeed prefer the non EHU site simply because they are unattractive to a certain clientele; with very few exceptions those we meet on them are those we feel "in-tune" with. That's not to be taken as a general comment on those that do go for EHUs, but a small minority of inconsiderate users that through our years of experience indicates would not be there on sites without the EHU.

Also with the laws restricting occupancy to just 5 vans and the inability to put a markup on the resale of electricity recovering the cost in all but "honeypot" locations, is we know challenging. The more so where the power is not readily available on the site and the cost of provision, has to be added to the unavoidable cost of maintenance.

Certainly there are those that want the type of site you are proposing. However, whether we are enough in number now and into the future is questionable, as we note again from experience these sites get a lower occupancy than those with at least EHUs. Much will depend on what the location itself is seen by users to offer and I expect like our pattern the use will be main season only.

We wish you success in the venture if you go ahead, users like ourselves feel that 5 van sites are the jewel in the club and the club from our point of view desperately needs you, far from sure it realises that though.

Thankyou Ocsid.  We would only want to be open in the main season anyway.

We don't need or want toilets and showers, can manage for ages without EHU and although Hardstanding is much preferred we'll pitch on grass at the right price. 

We don't use CLs much any more unless their location is suitable for our needs and most are too remote for me. However many folk do like to be in the middle of the countryside so the market is undoubtedly there. 

Personally I don't feel that this club supports CL owners well enough and I'd definitely be looking at the C&CC as an alternative 

There's a review on here of a basic CL without facilities or electricity in a non tourist part of inland agricultural Cornwall - I forget the exact words but it says something on the lines of For the first week of August we were the only Caravan on site. That might give you some guidance.

Just to clarify NCG, your OP implies you are no longer an MCC certified site. If this is incorrect then perhaps advertising you site more widly might bring in more custom. e.g. >here<

peedee

We did get certification but then had health problems so never opened. We then got to thinking about the Caravan Club and were trying to decide if it would be better for us.  Thanks

Ok thanks NCG, it is clearer now, perhaps an existing CL owner who started up like you are proposing will post some views. I personally don't think you have anything to lose by starting up without electric, it won't put everybody off.

peedee

Thanks Peedee

I for one, specifically seek out basic no-facillity grass-sites, because I much prefer them!   In my case these are C&CC CSs, (since not a member of this club).

Although I have no specific evidence, I sense that there may be more interest. In very basic sites like you propose amongst C&CC members. Not every one can justify being a member of both clubs.

Interesting ncg! We have just come back from North Lincolnshire, and have been staggered at just how lovely and peaceful the place is, with brilliant wildlife. I would suggest your location will be very important, lovely site will still need a little bit more of interest to attract people to stay, say something like an interesting house/garden/church/ attraction for at least a run out on a not so hot sunny day! 

We are fans of fairly basic sites, admittedly we do tend to use a hook up if it is provided, but often just 5amps. Decent underwheel ground helps as well, but not essential as we carry our own waffle boards. Depends if you just intend Summer opening. These are the only two extras that might increase your visitor numbers really, without vast expense. Toilets and showers are luxury items, and probably a step too far expenditure wise for just five vans. 

Good luck if you get on with things!