Go-ahead for Shropshire village traveller site

A planning application for the stationing of three pitches in Hinstock, near Market Drayton, was given the go-ahead yesterday by Shropshire Council's north planning committee, despite public opposition.

The plans are for the construction of a site for three static caravans and three utility/dayrooms, on land just off Pixley Lane near the A41.

The scheme has been met with strong opposition from Hinstock Parish Council and a 158- signature petition was also presented objecting to the proposal.

One of the parish council's objections was that parishioners feared an increase in crime in the area as a result of the pitches.

Speaking at a planning meeting at the Shirehall, Councillor Mark Williams, from Hinstock Parish Council, said: "It is alien and out of character for the area.

"It is inappropriate for its setting and surroundings."

Traffic and noise concerns for the residents of these caravans have also been raised as well as smell from a nearby sewage works.

There have been 253 public comments of opposition made to the plans which include objections such as a lack benefits to local community, countryside, employment, tourism or recreation, that there is a lack of need or local connection and that the site is part of established 5k and 10k runs which bring visitors to the area.

Matthew Green, from Green Planning, which deals with 40 per cent of the UK's planning applications for traveller sites, said: "There are always significant objections to gipsy and traveller sites.

"But that is not a reason to refuse. If this is an alien feature to the area, then it is alien everywhere."

Planning officer Karen Townsend admitted there would be some noise nuisance for the residents but said these were not significant enough for refusal.

Councillor Vince Hunt said: "Gypsy and traveller sites are always contentious and wherever they go there are going to be concerns and complaints.

"A lot of are families are these that stay and will integrate, the days of hooking up your horse and carriage have long gone.

"I have got no problem with this site."

But Councillor Martin Bennett said: "The site looks and feels isolated. When are we going to get integration if people are only there for a short time.

"I am concerned that this site is not appropriate."

The planning committee voted six in favour of the development and two against, with one abstention.