Anger over gipsy sites expansion

Cannock Chase could be forced to find space for as many as 70 extra gipsy caravans.

Ruling councillors were due to debate the proposals today and were expected to object to the number they have been asked to find.

The council is expected to object to a West Midlands regional strategy for gipsies and travelling showpeople up to 2017.

It suggests the district should have between a maximum of 35 pitches, which can accommodate two caravans each, and a minimum of 28 pitches.

The council claims it does not take into account the size of the district or the fact it has limited space because of the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Larger authorities than Cannock Chase have not been identified as having a bigger need for plots.

The council wants a new plan which proposes a minimum of 28 pitches for gipsies with any number above this amount taking into account the district's difficulty in finding sites.

Councillor Tony Williams, cabinet member for environment, said: "Cannock Chase is being asked to take more sites than neighbouring areas like Lichfield and Stafford even though there is the same amount of people travelling through."