No to Travellers’ site plan - Wakefield

From the Wakefield Express

AN action group has been formed to oppose a Travellers’ campsite in Stanley.

Hundreds of people have written to Wakefield Council protesting against plans for the 10-pitch site on land off Castle Gate.

And new residents’ group Stanley Action has sent out thousands of letters this week to make others in the area aware of the plan.

They fear the development would ruin the look of the area, take away cherished green belt land, cause an increase in traffic and create safety hazards.

Wendy Gibb, a founding member of Stanley Action, said: “This is green belt land and we don’t feel it is appropriate for this development.

“People are concerned that the level of traffic will increase on Castle Gate, which is already a busy road, and that its proximity to the motorway could be dangerous.

“They also feel it will be intrusive on the visual impact of the area. The most important thing is to make everyone aware of this and of how they can object, and make sure their voices are heard before the consultation ends.”

In a report to the council’s planning department, the applicant said there was a need for travellers’ accommodation and that the site would have a simple appearance, enhance existing planting on the site and that there were suitable local amenities.

Comments can be made online and consultation on the plan ends next Friday.