Plans submitted to Bromley Council by the Crystal Palace Park Trust could see part of the Rockhills Caravan and Motorhome Club site turned into temporary buildings to house offices for the Trust and a new public sauna facility.
Five-year temporary use proposed
The application seeks planning permission for five years and includes a change of use for part of the former caravan site, the installation of a modular single-storey office building, demountable sauna structures, new access arrangements and landscaping works.
According to the application, all structures would be temporary and would be removed at the end of the five-year period, with the land restored to public open space.
Supporters cite community benefits
Supporters of the plans say the scheme would bring a currently underused area back into active use, create opportunities for community engagement and wellbeing activities, and provide facilities without permanently developing parkland.
The site, located on Crystal Palace Parade, was previously used for caravan and motorhome accommodation but no longer operates in that role. The application identifies it as a potential location for temporary alternative uses.
Historic park context
Crystal Palace Park is one of south London's best-known green spaces and is recognised for its Victorian heritage, open parkland, sporting and cultural facilities, and its Grade I-listed dinosaur sculptures.
The proposal comes as part of broader efforts to activate underused areas within the park while preserving its historic character. The temporary nature of the structures is intended to ensure the land can be returned to public open space once the five-year period concludes.
