RESIDENTS of a holiday park have criticised the site's owner for allegedly charging full-year fees while keeping 'promised amenities' open for only eight months.

Cottage & Glendale Caravan in Port Carlisle, sold to Park Holidays in 2022, has been accused by numerous residents of charging a yearly site fee of £4,250, despite facilities such as the gym and swimming pool being closed until March 2025.

One owner of a site at the holiday park, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “They are charging twelve-month fees for eight months of what was promised. It’s a rip-off.

"Even the bar with no food is only open Saturday and Sunday.

“I have relatives coming to visit and we don’t know if the facilities will be open, so we’re having to book elsewhere," they said.

They also claim the change in management has led to an exodus, including 'twelve who left just last weekend'.

One owner said: “The owners' fees are the bread and butter of Glendale. Rental income is sporadic and not a guarantee. Why would any business alienate its bread and butter?" 

They also argue of feeling 'trapped' by the limited buy-back offers after investing a significant sum with the holiday park, claiming they were offered '£50,000 back for a caravan they had bought for £120,000' two months prior. 

The criticism follows recent planning approval for a central facilities building on site, set to include an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, reception, shop, and sales offices.

The project would involve the replacement of the existing leisure building, and the relocation and upgrade of a sewage treatment plant on the site.

Park Holidays declined to comment.