In decline
Mainly due to visits to the bus museum, adjacent to the site, I have stayed at Chapel Lane more times than any other CMC site; sadly, every time I come, I seem to like it less and yet, even on my last review, only four months ago, in November, I wrote "despite the negatives, I always seem to enjoy my time at this site". This last five-night visit, in February/March, was not because of the bus museum, but as a good place to stay between stops at Stockton and Littlehampton during a four-week sojourn whilst work is being carried out on my home.
Sad to relate then that my enjoyment of the site went down another notch and I have to doubt whether, but for the museum, I would come here again.
Previously, I reported that the site was careworn and had an unkept appearance. Nothing has changed in that regard and perhaps even has declined further. Moreover, I reported in November that the generally scruffy appearance was not helped by some seasonal residents, with remarkably sprawling vans, trailers, awnings, et cetera, who, I remarked, were not travellers, but that you would be "forgiven for thinking otherwise".
These residents remained, although one had reduced the number of outfits on the pitch. Frankly, these were not in any sense a nuisance - just an eyesore. On another pitch, close to me, there were guests who I did find a nuisance. I am not going into more detail about them, or why they were a nuisance, but shall limit my comments to saying that I could number four clear indications that denoted them as being something other than your typical CMC member (and be assured that that, in itself, was absolutely not why they were a nuisance). Readers may surmise what they will.
Traffic noise might be an issue for some, especially the nearer you pitch to Middle Lane; this is especially so in the mornings and evenings when it gets quite busy. Otherwise, noise from the trunk roads requires the wind to be in the right, that is "wrong", direction. Traffic never bothers me though; I prefer this kind of ambient noise than total quiet. So, I report it only for those who get uptight about it and thinking of an earlier review that mentioned it.
If the site can be brushed up a bit, better looked after and attract the more usual clientele, all will be well.
May I add that I agree 100% with the previous reviewer supporting the site managers for rigorously enforcing the earliest arrival time. Would that all site managers did this. Why do so many members just not get this?
