Davenham Gypsy site given go-ahead on appeal - Cheshire

From the Northwich Guardian

A Gypsy site planned for Davenham has been given the go-ahead after an appeal.

This is in spite of the proposals being turned down by Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) officers before even reaching planning committee.

The proposal is to change the use of the land, at the junction of the A533 Davenham bypass and London Road, to a residential caravan site for two Traveller families with four caravans, including two static mobile homes.

Plans were rejected by CWAC’s planning department in December 2011, after residents sent in hundreds of letters, comments and emails of objection.

The application was turned down on a number of grounds, including harm to the character of the open countryside and concerns about the proposed access, with limited visibility on a national speed limit road and in close proximity to Peckmill Roundabout, on the A533.

But, following a hearing in November, a report from planning inspector Jean Russell states: “The proposed development is acceptable in principle.

“Subject to conditions, it would not cause unacceptable harm to the Ancient Woodland, protected species or adjacent Site of Biological Importance; to the character and appearance of the area; or in respect of highway safety.

“It would be a sustainable Traveller site.

“There is a general need for Gypsy sites in Cheshire West and Chester; there are no alternative sites; and there is no adopted development plan policy to bring private Gypsy sites forward or maintain a five year supply.”

Clr Elton Watson, ward councillor for Davenham and Moulton, said: “We supported the council’s planning officers’ decision to refuse planning permission and I still beleive it was the right decison and the inspector has made the wrong decision with the appeal.

“I have asked that the councils lawyers look at this decision to see if we have grounds to challenge it.”