Man questions council over Gypsy and Traveller site planning decision - Bedfordshire

From Biggleswade Today

A villager has questioned the council’s methods when discussing Gypsy and Traveller site applications.

Mr Sims of Upper Caldectote believes that Central Beds Council should not have approved a planning application to extend the Gypsy and Traveller site at Magpie Farm, Hill Lane, Upper Caldecote because existing planning regulations were not being abided by.

On Wednesday, June 19 the council’s development management committee gave the green light for an additional five pitches at the site, meaning that a total of seven static or mobile caravans could legally stay on the site.

Mr Sims said: “Prior to the meeting members of the committee paid an unannounced visit to the site, which they found untidy with 12 caravans scattered around the site.

“This is what the local nearby residents have been complaining about, together with noise.”

Speaking at the meeting Helen Papworth, vice chair of Northill Parish Council, said: “Our council is frustrated by the lack of Central Beds Council enforcement to take action on the repeated planning infringements on the site. If current planning conditions are not being adhered to we think it would be completely inappropriate to pass this application.”

Another councillor described the “flagrant disregard for conditions” with a much higher number of caravans on site than allowed, to the extent that “granting this permission would actually result in a loss of pitches.”

Speaking on Wednesday, a Central Beds Council spokesman said: “Many issues were assessed by the council, including the impact on the character of the area and on the amenities of neighbouring properties.

“Government guidance dictates that any need for Gypsy and Traveller pitches must also be a factor in the consideration of such applications.

“The council concluded that the proposal complied with relevant planning policy and that planning permission should be granted.

“Planning law is clear that planning applications are to be determined on their merits, notwithstanding the situation at the site when a decision is made. The council will be liaising with the applicant to ensure that the conditions imposed as part of the planning approval are complied with.”

Consultation responses were considered, he added.