Cornwall’s housing pressures came into focus in July 2026 when the Guardian reported on people living in vehicles who faced having to move. The report covered people in different circumstances, including a resident living in a horsebox on private land. For anyone facing a similar situation, the first steps depend on where the vehicle is parked and whether they have somewhere safe to stay.
Check the rules for the specific site
Cornwall Council publishes rules for individual car parks. At Towan Headland in Newquay, its current page lists an overnight restriction for motorhomes and campers and says that sleeping or overnight camping is prohibited. Elsewhere, the council permits overnight parking for self-contained motorhomes at selected sites, subject to local conditions. Check the signs and the individual car park page before relying on an overnight stay. The council says that an overnight motorhome ticket is required for each night at sites where the arrangement is available.
If you have received a notice, keep a copy and note the location, date and deadline. A notice concerning a car park and correspondence about using a vehicle as a home on private land may raise different questions. Give a housing adviser the actual paperwork so they can see which authority issued it and what it asks you to do.
Ask for housing advice early
Cornwall Council provides a Housing Options service for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The council’s website directs people to an online form and lists 0300 1234 161 for those who cannot use it. Explain where you are staying now, when you have been asked to leave and whether there are health or accessibility needs that affect your options. If you need somewhere safe that night, say so when you make contact.
Keep a record of the people you speak to and any dates they give you. Parking guidance can tell you where a vehicle may stay overnight. Housing Options can discuss your individual situation and the support that may be available.
Further reading: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/housing/homeless-or-at-risk/
Parking rules: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/transport-parking-and-streets/parking/motorhome-parking/