Changes at Lock Island?

I have heard that the Island at Shiplake Lock is going to be sold off by the Environment Agency to a Commercial Developer! Does anyone know anything about this? What would it mean for village? Where would people park? Can this be true?

Posted by: Pam Hudgell | 27/11/2024 8:34 am

There is a lengthy article on this topic in today's Henley Standard.

Posted by: David Bartholomew | 02/01/2026 8:48 am

Yesterday, SODC issued a certificate of lawful development:

https://data.southoxon.gov.uk/ccm/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P25/S1310/LDE

The case officer states:

"Concern has been expressed locally about this application opening up the site to commercial camping rather than seasonable camping by local families (Shiplake Islanders) who have held licences to camp on the site for many years under traditional canvas tents. However, I do not consider that this application is able to specify the nature of the occupier of the tents or how the camping operates in the future beyond the seasonal limitations and number of pitches that form part of the established use."

Where are the visitors going to park and what impact will an unrestricted commercial development have on the community?

Posted by: David Bartholomew | 10/12/2025 8:45 am

Rather than anything to do with funding, I think the real reason is made clear in the EA's response quoted in the BBC article: 'The EA said the site had only been enjoyed by a "limited" number of people and wanted to encourage a more "inclusive approach" to allow everyone to stay.'

Posted by: David Bartholomew | 09/12/2024 5:10 pm

I will be writing to the EA as a result to raise these directly and seek areas of clarification for residents where needed. In particular, if the EA proceeds with its plans, I would like to ensure due consideration of parking matters and maintaining the historic character of the camping site. I will also be seeking a meeting with Shiplake parish council to listen to concerns and discuss local matters. Many thanks for getting in touch. Best wishes, Freddie

Posted by: Michael Ryan | 09/12/2024 4:13 pm

a significant factor at play. Like local authorities, I suspect a driver of the EA’s actions is to seek new revenue streams and that if the EA were otherwise sufficiently funded it would not be pursuing its current actions with regard to Shiplake island camping. Nevertheless I recognise the concerns raised about the EA’s plans to go to tender for a commercial operator to take control of the camping site.

Posted by: Michael Ryan | 09/12/2024 4:13 pm

Freddies response My office have received a significant amount of correspondence regarding the proposed changes to camping at Shiplake Lock Island, including from leaseholders, village residents, the parish council, and South Oxfordshire District Council. Firstly, I believe it important to put into context that the Environment Agency has not been adequately resourced and successive failure to invest in its work by the previous Conservative government, and indeed now the Labour government, is

Posted by: Michael Ryan | 09/12/2024 4:12 pm

SODC is stating that public consultation was not necessary! The licence they have issued contains a condition (No.15) that cannot be complied with: 15. Emergency vehicle access - A route shall be provided where possible for emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire engines to access all parts of the campsite in case of emergency. This route shall be three (3) metres wide and free from obstructions or barriers at all times the site is in use.

Posted by: David Bartholomew | 04/12/2024 11:47 am

BBC News - Shiplake Lock Camping Island plans described as 'reckless' - BBC News https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5yx0mxm03ro

Posted by: Elaine Fowler | 04/12/2024 11:31 am

Shiplake Parish Council have supported the Shiplake Islanders' attempts to retain their longstanding licences. The island usage has special mention in our Neighbourhood Plan. The EA have recently decided to evict the islanders and place the island camping ground with a third party.SODC have granted a camping licence. What this really means is unclear. ShiplakePC were not consulted and have asked SODC for clarification. We have raised concerns over parking, access and lack of Planning.

Posted by: Chris Penrose | 02/12/2024 9:23 am

I expect you've seen the front page of today's Henley Standard! I have raised questions with OCC and SODC as to whether there was any sort of public consultation, what form the 'licence' takes and where visitors are meant to park.

Posted by: David Bartholomew | 29/11/2024 12:43 pm