Villagers say Travellers site will make Datchet a 'ghetto' - Berkshire

From the Ascot, Wndsor and Eton Express

Angry villagers say building another Travellers' site in Datchet would overcrowd the village and turn it into a 'ghetto'.

Householders packed into Datchet Baptist Church in London Road on Thursday last week at a meeting to discuss plans at Datchet Common, off Mill Place.

More than 70 people including members of the Datchet Common Community Group aired their discontent over the proposal to house eight to 10 mobile homes on a field behind houses in Horton Road.

An online petition in opposition to the planned site on greenbelt land, which is owned by the Loveridge family, has been signed by more than 170 people.

Speaking after the meeting, group member Andrew Brett, of Cobb Close, said: "Some people think it would be overcrowded and could become a ghetto. Others have issues with the perception of having Travellers' sites on their doorsteps and the impact on property values.

"Datchet, Wraysbury and Horton has a large amount of sites already. Why can't other sites across the borough be considered?"

The 47-year-old said the group's own main concerns are that it sits on greenbelt land, on the flood plain and would harm wildlife. He urged community members to attend meetings in the village next week.

Datchet Parish Council are set to discuss the issue at the Village Hall in The Green on Monday night at 8pm.