Travellers could be given long-term site on Shropshire border

Residential traveller pitches and a communal utility day room could be set up next to the Halton roundabout at Chirk. It is hoped the project could encourage travelling families to stay in the area and possibly become part of the local community over time.

The plans have been submitted by a former travelling family which wants to provide the same facilities they have enjoyed to other gipsies.

Trevor Mennell, acting as agent for applicant Mary Berry, said many gipsy families choose to stop travelling temporarily or permanently because of educational, health or old age needs.

He said: "It is considered that it would be possible for the occupants of this site to integrate into the wider community over time. The provision of a settled base can help to break down the barriers between the settled and the gipsy communities.

"The proposed development would provide the opportunity to promote the peaceful and integrated co-existence between the site occupants and local community. The Berry family already have this relationship, having been located in the Wrexham area for many years."

Mr Mennell said the site would also give better opportunities for gipsy children, some of whom may not have been able to attend school before because of moving around. The site would include a play area for the children to use.

He added there is "a recognised need for such facilities" in the area.

Each of the seven chalets, which would be similar to those found in a holiday park, would have two or three bedrooms and would cater for about four people. The utility room would provide a wash room, bathroom and day room.

Restrictions would be placed on the site forbidding commercial activities, and priority will be given to people who live a nomadic life locally or visit the area regularly and want to move on to the site permanently.

The site, which is opposite where the weekly Sunday car boot sales are held, already has utilities connected and is within walking distance of Chirk.

The plans are open for public consultation and a decision is due to be made by Wrexham County Borough Council later this year.