Agenda item

APPEAL REF: APP/X1355/A/11/2149013

LPA REF: 7/2010/0348/DM

Appeal Against the Refusal of Planning Permission to Change the Use of Agricultural Land to a Travellers Site for Two Caravans, Two Touring Caravans, a Mobile Washroom and Associated Vehicle Parking on a Field Adjacent to Salters Lane, Trimdon

The Inspector had allowed the appeal.

A Inch (Principal Planning Officer) reported that the Inspector had found that although the proposed development would be of manageable impact, it would be harmful to the character and appearance of the locality. He had concurred with the views of objectors that the Trimdon landscape was a valuable local asset and the proposed development was perceived to be harmful to this setting. However the Inspector had determined that these concerns were outweighed by other matters in favour of the development, including the need for sites for Gypsies and Travellers within the County.

He continued that in allowing the appeal the Inspector had imposed 12 conditions and Planning Officers would work closely with the applicants to ensure that these conditions were complied with.

Members discussed the matter at length and referred to the 2007 Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment which identified that approximately 60 sites were needed across the County. Concern was expressed that new Council sites were not expected to be allocated for some time and Members felt that this should be progressed as a priority.

RESOLVED

That the information given, be noted and Members’ concerns in relation to the provision of Gypsy and Traveller sites be taken on board.