Residents urged to have their say on controversial proposals for transit Traveller site in Poole - Dorset

From the Daily Echo

RESIDENTS are being urged to give their views on contro-versial proposals to site a mini summer Traveller site in Oakdale, Poole.

As well as a 12-plot site at Marshes End, Creekmoor, Borough of Poole is also proposing a four-plot site off Broadstone Way, north of the B&Q car park.

An exhibition at Oakdale Library, which was open yesterday and this morning, is seeking views from residents, who can view the application – APP/14/0171 – on boroughofpoole.com and comment.

Ian Sutherland, who lives at Darby’s Corner, mid-way between the two applications said: “I’m not in favour of any site whatsoever. I believe the vast majority of people feel the same way as me.”

He added: “It’s not a democracy. The council takes no notice of the vast majority of people. Creekmoor residents in their dozens are saying they don’t want a site at Marshes End.”

Wife Jean Sutherland said: “I don’t think any site is a good site. Wherever you put them, nobody wants them on their doorstep.”

The Oakdale ward councillors have pointed out concerns including the smallness of the site, capital cost of £75,000, an “ugly fenced site” on the gateway to Poole, annual running costs of around £9,000 and child and road safety issues.

Oakdale ward councillors Peter Adams and Janet Walton have called on residents to let them know their concerns.

“Your three local councillors voted against the proposal on the basis that it was not value for money and insufficient consultation has taken place,” they said.

“We however understand the argument that the distance between the site and the nearest residents is quite large which should minimise any possible problems.”

Jeff Morley, team manager environmental and consumer protection, Borough of Poole said concerns had been raised about the access being on a 50mph road.

“Ninety per cent of Travellers come to Poole and the conurbation because they work,” he said. “When they have exhausted the work they will be moving on along the coast.”