HARPA is new name for BH&HPA
HARPA is new name for BH&HPA as the Holiday Park Association adopts new name to reflect a modern, dynamic park industry
At the conclusion of its 75th anniversary year in 2025, the official representative body of Britain’s parks industry is set to unveil a major re-brand of its identity.
From January 2026, the British Holiday and Home Parks Association will become known as the Holiday and Residential Parks Association, or HARPA.
The change will be launched at the association’s national conference in London when Devon park owner Claire Flower takes on the role of the organisation’s National Chair.
Claire, a Director of Beverley Holidays, is part of the members’ Working Group that helped steer the creation and implementation of the new identity.
HARPA, she says, is much more than a re-naming, and will lay the foundations of a body going forward with even greater dynamism to represent its members’ best interests.
“Our Working Group was tasked with looking at both the past and the future of the association, and ensuring that all members are given the opportunity to have their voices heard,” said Claire.
“Our goal was to create a representative, inclusive and modern identity that will continue to support and reinforce the vast range of work we do across the industry.
“Becoming HARPA is an exciting and ambitious step that will bring us greater recognition and further empower our future in a fast changing political and social environment.
“We offer our thanks to everyone who has helped shape our new identity and for being part of this positive change,” added Claire whose park recently celebrated its 65th anniversary.
Also helping to direct the Working Group was Lancashire residential park owner Michael Ward who acted as representative for the association’s residential parks sector.
“This has been a collaborative process involving all members from the start, and the result reflects both our heritage and our future direction,” said Michael.
“We are embracing a new chapter for our organisation while upholding the importance of tradition and consistency.
“The new acronym, HARPA, was carefully chosen to be distinctive and easily identifiable, and offers a more accurate and inclusive representation of who we are and what we do.
“The logo and design options underwent thorough testing and refinement, with valuable input not only from the working group but also from the wider membership and a range of external stakeholders,” he said.
Current National Chair Ian James said: “As Chairman, I have been immensely proud to serve an organisation which, for 75 years, has championed the interests of Britain’s parks with dedication and integrity.
“The decision to become HARPA marks not just a change of name, but a bold step into the future for our industry.
“I’m confident this new identity will strengthen our voice and secure the association’s place at the heart of our sector for decades to come.”
The association’s Director General Debbie Walker said that the consensus for change underscored how closely the member-led organisation worked together and shared collective aims.
Key Facts
- Old Name: British Holiday and Home Parks Association (BH&HPA).
- New Name: Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA).
- Launch Date: January 2026 at the national conference in London.
- Leadership: New National Chair will be Claire Flower, Director of Beverley Holidays.
- Working Group Representatives: Included Claire Flower (holiday parks) and Michael Ward (residential parks).
- Current National Chair: Ian James.
- Director General: Debbie Walker.
HARPA Highlights
- HARPA reflects a modern, inclusive identity that represents both holiday and residential parks.
- Developed after extensive consultation with members and external stakeholders.
- Marks the conclusion of the association’s 75th anniversary year.
- Aims to strengthen industry recognition and influence in a fast-changing political and social environment.
- Balances heritage with a dynamic vision for the future.
FAQs about HARPA
What does HARPA stand for?
HARPA stands for the Holiday and Residential Parks Association.
When does the new name come into effect?
The association will officially become HARPA in January 2026, coinciding with the national conference in London.
Why is BH&HPA changing its name?
The change reflects a more modern, inclusive, and dynamic identity that better represents both holiday and residential park members.
Who will lead HARPA?
From January 2026, Claire Flower, Director of Beverley Holidays, will serve as National Chair, supported by the member-elected working group and Director General Debbie Walker.
What is the significance of the rebrand?
It marks a bold new chapter for the industry body, strengthening its visibility, voice, and representation of the UK’s parks sector for decades to come.
