Irish Traveller family wins appeal for caravan site on green belt land

An appeal lodged by an Irish Traveller family to reside in caravans on green belt property situated close to Wolverhampton has been successful, overturning a council’s decision. South Staffordshire Council had previously denied the family permission to convert the site at Hobnock Road in Essington into a residential caravan area, citing the proposed change of use as “inappropriate development.” However, a planning inspector subsequently reversed this ruling, concurring that the land is suitable for occupation by two traveller families. The inspector determined that while the plan “would also result in harm to openness” of the green belt, this detriment would be superseded by other factors. The council had asserted that the alteration of land use “would cause demonstrable harm to the openness and permanence of the green belt.” Nevertheless, Planning Inspector Helen Hockenhull decided in the family’s favour after conducting an inspection of the location. Approval has now been issued for the property to serve as a residential caravan site for two traveller families. This includes provisions for each family to have two caravans, with a maximum of one being a static caravan or mobile home, alongside the installation of extra hard-standing. Ms. Hockenhull noted that the South Staffordshire district lacked any public sites, and all current private sites were fully occupied. Prior to the family’s arrival at the site in April 2023, they had been residing at various locations within Wolverhampton. She stated: “Based on the lack of any identified available, alternative accommodation, there is at least a possibility that the family would have to resort to life on the road in the event that they were unable to stay on the appeal site.” She further remarked: “Whilst I acknowledge the council has taken a positive approach to allowing new sites in the green belt, it is clear from the evidence before me that there has been a continuing shortfall of pitches over recent years. This shortfall is significant.” Ms. Hockenhull conveyed her understanding of the council’s “difficult position,” but emphasized that “the failure of the development plan process to meet the needs of Gypsies and travellers is a material consideration.” The Local Democracy Reporting Service, which reports on councils and other public service bodies, collected this information. For more updates, follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.