Expansion of Walsoken traveller site approved despite neighbours’ worries

The owners of a gypsy and traveller site have been granted permission to increase the number of caravans that can stay there despite complaints from neighbours.

The land in Walsoken already has permission to be used as a gypsy and traveller site, but in recent years, the number of caravans there has more than doubled.

It has risen from one static and two touring to five static homes and one touring caravan.

West Norfolk Council’s planning committee met earlier this week to make a decision but chose to conduct a site visit yesterday.

After assessing the area, members voted to approve the increase in the size of the site.

However, concerns were raised that it is too isolated, with Cllr Tom Ryves, who represents Methwold, worried this could affect the education of the children there due to its distance away from schools.

Neighbours had also urged councillors to refuse permission for the site to grow amid fears it could become a “ghetto in the countryside”, with members of Walsoken Parish Council saying they are worried about the living standards at the site.

However, councillors believed the expansion was acceptable - although they have imposed a series of conditions, which include creating a ‘buffer’ around the perimeter through hedging.