Inquiry told Shropshire gipsy site would be 'alien'
A proposed traveller site would become an "alien feature" in the area, a public inquiry has been told.
Shropshire Council and residents in Rosehill, near Market Drayton, say the proposed site of four gipsy caravans on land beside the A41 would harm the appearance of the area.
The final day of a three-day public inquiry was held yesterday during which closing statements were read out on behalf of the council, Rosehill Residents Action Group and the applicant.
Applicant Paul Brooks is hoping government planning inspector Susan Heywood will overturn the council's decision to oppose the scheme, earmarked for land at Adbo Farm.
It is not yet known when the inspector's final decision on Mr Brook's appeal will be revealed.
Speaking at the inquiry at Market Drayton's Festival Drayton Centre, Christine Williams, spokeswoman for the action group, said: "The development is not sustainable. We agree with the local authority that it constitutes an alien feature. This area already provides a significant number of gipsy sites." Jack Smyth, speaking on behalf of Shropshire Council, said: "Substantial harm is likely to be caused to the character and appearance of the area if the appeal is allowed.
"The provision of hardstanding and the volume and number of structures which are to be introduced will reduce the openness of the site.
"It is common ground that, with the exception of the appellant, none of the proposed site occupants meet the test of demonstrating a strong local connection.
"In respect of the personal circumstances, it is observed that none of the characteristics of the gipsies are remarkable." But Matthew Green, agent on behalf of the applicant, described the development as a "well designed scheme" and one of the safest gipsy and traveller sites in a rural location.
"This site is not subject to any special planning constraints. Any identified harm is limited," he said.
Shropshire Council turned down the application in October last year using delegated powers after describing it as an "alien feature".
Stoke-upon-Tern Parish Council also objected to the plans after raising fears of the potential visual and noise impact on neighbours.
