A LANDOWNER plans to set up a glamping site next to a pub.

Andrew Harker has applied for permission to install glamping pods in a field adjacent to the Drum and Monkey, in Newbridge Green, near Upton.

There are already 12 caravan and camping pitches around the pub but Mr Harker now hopes to capitalise on the growing glamorous camping market, known as 'glamping'.

The new site, named Honey Pod Farm, will feature four glamping pods and is due to officially open in May.

Mark Newton, manager of the site, said: "I designed all the pods, they look like bee hives. That's the thinking behind the design and name.

"I made the pods with my nephew over the last year. I'm just finishing the last one off."

EJ Planning, the agent for the pub, said: "There has been a recent surge in demand for glamping style accommodation.

"In order to grow and maintain its success the business proposes to cater for this new growing market offering glamping pods as an extension to the existing site.

"The pods would be sited at the northern end of the field adjacent to the pub.

"This field is in the ownership of the applicant and is presently used as pasture for grazing sheep.

"The glamping site has not yet been offered commercially but the pods were constructed over the summer of 2017 and are nearing completion.

"This application seeks to change the use of part of the adjacent agricultural field for the siting of glamping pods which are temporary moveable structures.

"The future success of the pub is linked to the success of the business as a whole which includes the camping, caravanning and glamping site."

The glamping pods will be 2.5 metres high and made from dark brown timber.

The Drum and Monkey's closed and had been vacant for 18 months before it was purchased in 2013.

EJ Planning say the establishment is now a thriving business, partly due to the success of the caravan and camping facilities.