“Temporary” gypsy caravan site set to become permanent

AN application for a controversial temporary gypsy caravan site to be made permanent is to come before a meeting of Warrington’s development management committee on Wednesday.
The site, in Cartridge Lane, Grappenhall, has been occupied since November 2007 and was granted temporary status by the Secretary of State on appeal in July 2014.
There are six caravans currently on the site – and the proposals will not alter or amend the site layout or facilities.
Planning officers say the access will remain unaltered via a gated, private drive off Cartridge Lane with suitable turning facilities to allow vehicles to exit in a forward direction.
“Vehicle movements will be no greater than that afforded by a typical housing development with the added benefit of considerably reduced construction traffic,” they say.
Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council have objected to the proposals on the grounds of inappropriate development in the Green Belt. But there have been no objections from nearby residents and planning officers are recommending the application be approved.
Development in the Green Belt can only be justified by “very special circumstances” – but officers say the severe lack of sites for travellers in Warrington represent such circumstances.