Mega campervan convoy, surf simulator and seaside sleepover get green light

A convoy of up to 100 campervans will roll around Jersey’s west coast before families settle in for a beachside camp-out at the Watersplash as part of a charity fundraiser that has now been given the green light.

For one night only, the Watersplash is set to become Jersey’s biggest campsite for one night only, with campervans, family fun and live music to raise money to help Islanders with disabilities experience the therapeutic power of the sea.

Planning officers have approved Healing Waves’ plans for the one-day event on Saturday 5 September, describing the proposal as acceptable because of its short duration, detailed safety planning and measures to minimise disruption.

The event aims to raise money for the local charity, which provides ocean therapy for Islanders living with disabilities, while giving families “a lovely way of ending the summer”.

How will the day pan out?

The day will begin with a convoy of up to 100 campervans setting off from Le Pulente and completing an 11.75-mile route around the Island’s west before returning to the Watersplash.

Once back, the car park will transform into a family festival featuring a surf simulator, bouncy castles, face painting, a coconut shy and live music throughout the afternoon and evening.

Up to 50 campervans will then stay overnight in the Watersplash car park before departing the following morning.

The rules for the evening

As part of their planning application, organisers were required to put together a detailed operational plan for the event.

Campervans will be parked in five rows, at least three metres apart, with a checkerboard layout designed to improve fire access and even preserve sea views.

There will be no barbecues, gas cooking or campfires, and drinking will not be permitted within the car park. Security staff, fire marshals and first aiders will be on site throughout the event, and a dedicated fire point with extinguishers, sand buckets and an alarm bell will also be provided.

Permission granted

The officer’s report also says sound levels will be monitored and adjusted “to avoid prolonged or unfavourable noise” reaching nearby residents.

Environmental Health raised no objection, although it noted that any future nuisance complaints could still be investigated if necessary.

In recommending approval, planning officer Wendy Johnston concluded that, because of the event’s short duration, the “thorough Events Plan and Risk Assessment” and organisers’ work with Jersey Fire and Rescue Service, permission should be granted subject to conditions.