Go-ahead to extend Telford site for traveller families
An extension of a Telford traveller site has been given the go-ahead, spelling the closure of a temporary site in the town.
The 17 new pitches at an authorised site are aimed at "improving the quality of life for gipsies".
A meeting heard that the new site would help "reduce tension" between travellers and residents.
The extension at Lodge Road, Donnington Wood, was last night welcomed by Telford & Wrekin Council's planning committee.
Members heard the site was part of a bid to cut down on caravans cropping up on illegal encampments across the county. Councillor Amrik Jhawar said he hoped it would stop travellers pitching up on Stafford Park and "making a mess".
Each new plot at the site will have space for two cars, a touring caravan, a static caravan, a utility pod and a small grassed area.
Councillor Nigel Dugmore asked: "When is a traveller not a traveller?
"I am a bit confused as to who pays for water, electricity, drainage?"
He was told travellers would pay rent to the council.
The council currently owns and manages two gipsy and traveller sites, the other is at Ketley Brook Caravan Site in Lawley and its 20 spaces are at capacity. It must find 34 residential pitches, a transit site of about 10 pitches and five travelling show people plots by 2017. Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, Herefordshire and Powys Gipsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (2008) identified the shortfall.
Last night's meeting came days after travellers set up camp close to a residential drive in the town.
The group arrived in Daisy Bank Drive, St Georges on Sunday, bringing with them nine caravans and horses.
Emily Knightley, a spokeswoman for Telford & Wrekin Council, said: "We've been down and spoken to travellers. We have advised them that they are on council owned land and that they need to leave by the end of today.
"If they haven't gone by tomorrow morning we will take action through the courts."
