Traveller camp decision still in the balance

NINE months after a public inquiry into the controversial expansion of a travellers’ camp at Grappenhall, the outcome is still in the balance.
The hearing last June involved an appeal by traveller Tom Smith and his family against the refusal of planning consent to increase the size of the site in Cartridge Lane to enable two mobile homes and 10 touring caravans to be sited there.
Previously the site had temporary consent for just two caravans.
A decision was expected before Christmas or in January at the latest. But it is still with communities and local government secretary Eric Pickles.
Grappenhall councillor Mike Biggin (pictured) who opposed the travellers’ original application, said: “The delay makes us dare to hope the appeal might be refused.
“The travellers have continued to develop the site and there are now 10 caravans and two mobile homes there without planning permission.
“It is particularly galling for local people who wouldn’t even be able to get permission for a storm porch.
“The travellers have shown by their actions they are unlikely to abide by the law or by any conditions set down.
“Although we have no prejudice against the travellers or their lifestyle choice it is plainly unfair that they should be allowed to continually flout planning law”
More than 200 people wrote letters of objection and 600 signed a protest petition at the time of the inquiry.