Plans to establish temporary caravan camping sites for volunteers and contractors at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) have received formal approval. The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises has been granted permission to use agricultural land near Fairford to accommodate caravans for up to 28 days annually.
Two sites have been designated for the camping village: the north-east location known as Cutlers Hill will host up to 100 caravans for volunteers, while the south-west site at Horcott Hill will provide space for up to 50 caravans reserved for contractors supporting RIAT. Both locations will utilize existing vehicular access points off Horcott Road.
Emma Wellman, operations director of RIAT, addressed the Cotswold District Council’s planning committee to outline the plans. Notably, no objections were raised by the public or consultees. The application required committee oversight due to the size of the site exceeding one hectare.
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Wellman highlighted that RIAT is among the world’s largest military air shows, held annually at RAF Fairford since 1985, contributing significantly to the local economy. Proceeds from the event support the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, which promotes STEM education by inviting 10,000 schoolchildren to attend the show.
RIAT also facilitates international defense industry engagement through allied events hosted by the RAF Chief of the Air Staff and RAF Charitable Trust Enterprises. Each year, the core RIAT management team is supplemented by approximately 1,400 volunteers—ranging from aviation enthusiasts to serving military personnel—who are essential to the event’s success.
While much of the camping falls under permitted development rights, planning permission was required last year specifically for the temporary caravan pitches. The council’s planning committee unanimously approved the proposed caravan village, with Councillor Daryl Corps proposing and Councillor Julia Judd seconding the motion.
It is important to note that this year’s RIAT event has been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and resulting uncertainty over access to RAF Fairford, which is currently being used by the United States Air Force.