Caravan owners at a holiday park in Ayrshire have been left distressed following a sudden 25 per cent increase in site fees. The decision by the park owners to raise the fees has left many caravan owners at Ardmillan Castle Holiday Park in Girvan facing an additional £500 to their annual site fees next year. The park, known for its 11 months’ license allowing owners to stay for the majority of the year, has been a popular choice for Ayrshire holidaymakers for decades.
Many long-term residents, including elderly individuals who have been on the site for years, have expressed their concerns over the significant fee hike. Some have stated that they cannot afford the increase and are now considering selling their caravans as a result. One caravan owner commented on the purported reasons behind the fee hike, mentioning that the rise in operational costs such as rates has been exaggerated. The increase is expected to generate an extra £105,000 for the park.
In response to the fee increase, social media has seen an outpouring of frustration from caravan owners who feel they are being unfairly treated. Concerns have been raised about the lack of maintenance at the site, with reports of poorly lit areas, unkempt roads, and owners having to maintain their own pitch spaces. Some owners have even mentioned the possibility of selling their caravans due to the financial strain caused by the fee hike.
The park owners have defended their decision to raise fees, citing rising operational costs and the need for sustainability. They emphasised that compared to other local parks, their fees remain competitive starting at £2,555 annually. In an effort to ease the transition for owners, a £120 early payment discount has been introduced. The owners also pledged to address maintenance issues, including improving roads and adding new lighting.
Despite the backlash on social media, the park owners clarified that no caravan has ever been removed due to unpaid fees, and they aim to work with residents to ensure a well-maintained and welcoming environment. They highlighted the unique selling points of the park, such as no tenure limit on caravans and a focus on preserving the natural environment. The park owners have disabled public comments on social media to maintain a positive atmosphere and stated their commitment to open communication with owners through a private forum.
In summary, the sudden increase in site fees at Ardmillan Castle Holiday Park has sparked concern and dismay among caravan owners in Ayrshire. The park owners have defended their decision, citing operational costs and sustainability, while also promising to address maintenance issues and provide support to owners during the transition period.