An expert in the leisure industry says the holiday park and caravan sectors have the potential to benefit from a possible ‘staycation’ boom in the UK – if they approach the opportunity correctly.

Adam Parton, partner at South Cumbria chartered accountants MHA Moore & Smalley, said if lockdown measures continue to ease, there will be opportunities for leisure facilities.

He said: “The leisure industry is planning for an easing in the lockdown rules, possibly from July 4.

“There is clearly some uncertainty over how this year will play out, but we are certainly expecting domestic tourism to bounce back strongly in 2021, so the next few months will be a way for the sector to at least dip its feet in the water.

“These kinds of destinations may be able to illustrate safe reopening quicker than hotels, for instance.

“I think we will begin to see tourists interested in knowing these details in the same way they would previously have looked at what leisure facilities were available, and whether there was onsite wifi.”

Adam said that many businesses will already have plans in place for reopening safely, but will be looking to the Government for guidance.

Currently, July 4 is the earliest likely date for reopening of campsites and similar facilities, but only if the Government’s tests have been met regarding factors including the numbers of coronavirus infections and testing rates.

Adam said: “If it is safe to do so, these facilities should be opening when they can, to provide employment, support the companies which operate them, and to give the UK population the chance of a break from the current situation.

“Now that the lockdown has begun to ease somewhat, we will be watching with interest to see how the situation progresses over coming weeks.”