Claim that Shropshire Gypsy site would affect trade

From the Shropshire Star

Controversial plans to create a Traveller site in the Shropshire countryside will affect neighbouring properties and businesses, campaigners have warned.

Residents in Rosehill, near Market Drayton, also say the proposed site of four Gypsy caravans on land beside the A41 is too close to the main road.

Members of the Rosehill Residents’ Action Group were speaking at day two of a public inquiry yesterday into whether Shropshire Council’s decision to oppose the proposals should be overturned.

At Market Drayton’s Festival Drayton Centre, Government planning inspector Susan Heywood heard from residents that there are already alternative sites for Gypsy caravans in the local area.

Stephen Fleet, member of the action group, said: “Clearly the site is visible. There will be a higher number of vehicles entering the site. Lights will be encroaching on to our property.”

Shaun Dixon, another member of the action group, said: “Within 15 miles we have our fair share of sites and pitches. There’s genuine concern from businesses that this will have an effect on their business.”

Speaking on behalf of the applicant, agent Matthew Green hit back.

“There are accidents on every road everywhere. This doesn’t appear to be a road where there are a lot of accidents,” he said.

“Why would Gypsies and Travellers deter people from using the nearby hotel?”

He added: “Shropshire Council wants to restrict Gypsy sites compared with other places in the country. The council has taken the approach of what should be there rather than what is actually there.”

Paul Brooks had his application for the site turned down by Shropshire Council, but he appealed the decision and was told a public inquiry would take place.

The council turned down the application in October last year using delegated powers, describing it as an “alien feature” which would be out of keeping with the area.

Residents objected to the scheme, earmarked for land at Adbo Farm, after agreeing it is not in keeping with the area.

Stoke-upon-Tern Parish Council also objected to the plans after raising fears of the potential visual and noise impact.

The inquiry, which was being held in Market Drayton’s Festival Drayton Centre, was due to finish today.