Gypsy family in third attempt to get new pitches - Cambridgeshire

From the Ely Weekly News

Gypsies have launched a fresh bid to turn a disused builders’ yard into a campsite – for the third time.

The yard in Hod Hall Lane, Haddenham, has been at the centre of controversy for years as the Ruszkiewicz family have wanted to pitch caravans and trailers there.

In January 2009, plans to build four pitches there were thrown out and in June that year, East Cambs District Council rejected plans to create one pitch.

Now Mr Ruszkiewicz wants to create three pitches on the site and has again applied to the district council to change the use of the yard.

The last set of plans attracted 40 letters of objection from villagers who feared it could become a magnet for illegally- parked caravans – dubbing it “the new Smithy Fen”.

Haddenham Parish Council also raised 19 points of concern with the plans.

The increased risk of flooding, problems with vehicle access and sewage were the main worries raised by objectors.

In the fresh application, Parkin Planning Services, Mr Ruszkiewicz’s agents, say: “The applicant considers that this is an appropriate time to submit this current application.

“He seeks permission for a family pitch to provide accommodation for him, his wife, his two adult children and their partners.

“His wife was born in Ely Grange Hospital. Members of her family have lived in and around Ely and some are buried here. They would like to return to the area where they have strong family ties.

“The applicant’s nephew already lives on an authorised site at Hod Hall Lane.

“The Gypsy status of the family has previously been accepted by the district council.”

Over the next 20 years, the council needs to provide an extra 38 pitches for the Gypsy and Traveller population in East Cambs.

With 11 already granted permission, it has agreed to allocate 12 more over the next decade – East Cambs currently has 157 pitches.

To have your say on the fresh plans, go to www.eastcambs.gov.uk.