Travellers’ site next to school?

Jun 13 2008 by Rebecca Edwards, Chester Chronicle

Travellers’ site next to school?

A FIELD next to Weaver Vale Primary School in Frodsham could be turned into a permanent Travellers site for 10 caravans.

The site between Ship Street and the M56 - which also faces houses and a playground - is one of four possible sites named in a survey for Vale Royal.

Last night (Thursday) Vale Royal Executive Board were expected to order a public consultation into the sites.

In a report to the meeting, Chief planner Richard Ellison recommended the council consult local residents and Travellers.

He added there is a need for 25-37 pitches across the borough.

To view a hi-res map of the proposed site, click here

The council has earmarked £250,000 to develop a site for gypsies and travellers.

Other sites highlighted include New Road, Winsford, the former waste site at Bradford Road, Winsford and Chester Road, Sandiway.

Councillor Brian Lloyd (Frodsham North, Lab) supports the principle of a permanent site.

He said: "If you don’t want illegal sites you have got to start having controlled ones with proper facilities.

"However the location of them is crucial and there is a need for full public consultation on this."

Vale Royal Borough Councillor Andrew Dawson (Frodsham North, Con) called for a "full and reasoned debate."

He added: "I support the right for travellers to have a proper place to live in dignity but also very strongly respect the rights of local residents not to be put in fear or suffer crime which unfortunately is potentially a problem.

"We must have a full discussion of this proposal so the residents of the Ship Street area know they have been listened to."

On Tuesday, Vale Royal planners will consider an application by travellers in Tower Lane, Alvanley to use farm land for four caravans and associated landscaping.

The Chronicle wants to hear your views on the proposed site. Email rebecca.edwards@cheshirenews.co.uk or call 01244 606415