Councillor warned over 'scrap' remark as Gypsy site extension near Hurworth granted - County Durham

From the Northern Echo

A COUNCILLOR was warned following a comment about the Gypsy community during a planning committee meeting.

Councillor Bill Stenson, a member of Darlington Borough Council’s planning committee, made the remark during a meeting on Wednesday (July 3).

During a debate on plans for a Gypsy site extension between Hurworth and Darlington, Coun Stenson said: “We all know that wherever there’s Gypsies, there’s always a bit of scrap.”

To which committee chairman Paul Baldwin replied: “Councillor, I would warn you; be careful what you are saying.”

Applicant George Watson had asked for permission for a change of use relating to his property, an existing Gypsy site, on Roundhill Road.

Despite objections from local residents and Hurworth Parish Council, the plans were approved subject to the additional condition, agreed by Mr Watson, that the caravans be no more than 21ft in length.

The plans will provide for an extra three Gypsy pitches on the site.

Councillor Charles Johnson, the mayor of Darlington, moved that the plans be rejected, but that motion was defeated.

Coun Johnson was concerned about subsequent extensions to the site if the application was approved.

A report prepared for committee members said: “It is considered that the development is acceptable in this location, being adjacent to an existing residential Gypsy or Traveller site.”

Objectors raised concerns about traffic on Roundhill Road and potential flooding risk.