Storm over new gypsy site plan

ANGRY residents have lodged objections to new plans for a gypsy caravan site at Warrington.
Two petitions signed by a total of 123 people, plus 76 letters of objection have been received by the borough council in respect of the plan at Brook House, Sandy Lane West, Longford.
Local councillors Mike and Kate Hannon, John Kerr-Brown, Brian Maher and Steve Roberts have also lodged objections.
But officers are recommending it be approved.
The applicant is Mr W. Smith – but it is not clear if he is related to Mr Tom Smith who last year won planning consent for a caravan site at Grappenhall.
Mr Smith’s application is for 10 mobile homes.
Each would be occupied by a gypsy family and there would be no commercial activity on the site at all.
There would be gardens for each home and parking for two vehicles. But touring caravans, used for travelling, would be stored off site. Existing workshops on the site would be demolished.
Objectors say the development would lead to noise, loss of privacy and loss out outlook. They fear the likely traffic impact, the loss of mature trees and the possibility of flooding, sewage problems, etc.
There are also fears of anti-social behaviour and health and safety.
Officers point out that the site is well screened, in an urban area and within easy reach of shops, schools, medical facilities and public transport.
There is also a formally recognised need for gypsy and traveller accommodation in Warrington which the council has an obligation to meet.
The borough council’s development control committee will consider the application tomorrow (Wednesday).