Plan for four new traveller sites off

Controversial plans for four new gipsy and travellers pitches on green belt land in South Staffordshire have been thrown out by councillors following 500 objections from residents.

The proposals, which would have seen mobile homes, utility centres and access roads built in Wombourne, Slade Heath, Coven and Featherstone, were refused during a packed meeting of South Staffordshire District Council's regulatory committee.

The decision flew in the face of officers who recommended the sites be built because there was a need in the area, but was welcomed by more than 100 residents who attended the meeting.

Protesters claimed the developments would spoil green belt land, devalue house prices, put pressure on local amenities and create tension.

Councillor Joan Williams, who represents Wombourne North and Lower Penn, said last night: "This is green belt land. There are no special circumstances why it should be developed – it could overwhelm the area."

The four applications were for one new pitch at Pool House Road, Wombourne, four at Old Stafford Road, Slade Heath, two at Rock Bank Brewood Road, Coven, and eight adjacent to Oak Tree Caravan Site, New Road, Featherstone.