Essington gipsy caravans plan sparks public outcry

Bill Watton hopes to put three caravans – containing two gipsy households – in the rear garden of his house in Long Lane, Essington.

South Staffordshire District Council's planning committee will make a decision over whether to approve the controversial plans in two weeks' time. Villagers object to the caravans being situated on green belt land and are concerned about increased traffic.

Last night's meeting, held at Long Lane Sport & Community Centre, continued the intense debate in the village after last week's Essington Parish Council meeting.

Mr Watton himself did not attend.

Councillor David Clifft chaired the meeting and he was told by residents that approving the plans would set a precedent for all future applications.

Long Lane resident Caroline Adams, aged 48, said: "If they want to live as a traveller they shouldn't be living in the back garden in a residential lane. If this is agreed and it went ahead it would set a precedent. Rather than stay in a nursing home people will say they may as well stay in a back garden."

Fellow Long Lane resident Lorraine Johnston's house backs onto Mr Watton's property.

The 56-year-old said: "Nobody wants the loss of green belt land. We are concerned about the impact on the environment and about the loss of views." There are currently four caravan sites in Essington.

Councillor Clifft said 16 letters of objection had been received. A petition opposing the plan has been signed by 135 residents.

He added: "What would be needed is the support from residents. He hasn't done anything that is illegal or that the council could challenge."

South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson yesterday spoke out over the proposal, saying he hoped it would be rejected.

It is expected that a final decision will be made on July 2.