The organisers of the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), the world’s largest military air show held annually at RAF Fairford, have come under fire from residents of the nearby village of Marston Meysey over plans for a temporary campsite.
This year’s RIAT, taking place from July 17-19, already offers an official campsite with tickets sold out. Yet, organisers have submitted a planning application to Wiltshire Council seeking permission to use an additional field as a temporary campsite for up to 60 caravans, for seven days annually during the event.
Marston Meysey, a small village of just over 200 people located on the Wiltshire/Gloucestershire border, is vehemently opposed to the proposal. Residents argue the campsite’s location is “wholly unsuitable,” as it sits directly behind several homes at the rear of their gardens along the village’s only street.
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Concerns raised include security risks, potential fire hazards, noise pollution without any set curfews, and the disruption to the quiet village life. Local objections have also highlighted environmental impacts, noting the proposed area is a pristine organic agricultural field supporting diverse wildlife.
The planning statement from February 2025 details the proposed change of use from agricultural land to a temporary festival campsite with up to 60 caravan pitches. Each pitch would include electricity hookups, accommodating caravans and campervans on one parcel of land, while camping tents and glamping tents would be on another nearby parcel.
Despite addressing issues such as campsite management, public amenities, traffic, and environmental considerations in the application, residents remain unconvinced. Objections emphasize the detrimental effect on residents’ privacy and wellbeing, as well as irreversible damage to the soil and wildlife habitats.
One objection letter laments the lack of dialogue and consideration for villagers, describing the campsite as a “field full of party animals” disturbing the community’s peace. Another criticizes the application as “poorly thought through," expressing fears over noise, loss of privacy, and safety concerns.
Over 25 formal objections have been submitted by Marston Meysey residents, urging the council to refuse or at least delay the application until it properly addresses these concerns.
With the consultation deadline passed, Wiltshire Council is expected to make a decision on the campsite application by April 8.