Plans to expand gipsy site move a step closer

Controversial plans to expand a gipsy camp in the South Staffordshire green belt today moved closer to reality after councillors were recommended to approve them – despite officers saying it would be an "inappropriate development".

Patrick Dunne wants to install three extra caravans on his Coven Heath camp, which was attacked by raiders earlier this year.

Two stolen lorries were driven through the land off the A449 Stafford Road next to Brinsford Bridge, Coven Heath, where he lives with 10 family members.

A four-strong gang rammed the trucks through 4ft-high walls and metal gates before running amok on the 3.5-acre site. The lorries smashed through two of Mr Dunne's homes and showered his sleeping children with glass and bricks.

Last year Mr Dunne failed in his bid to expand his site with four new residential gipsy pitches. The plan for four residential pitches and four amenity buildings on the site would have seen up to eight extra caravans, more than doubling its size.

The latest plans submitted to the district council also include an ancillary utility building.