Decision on gipsy plan for Eastergate deferred

The application by David Young for Little Nova Paddocks in Eastergate Lane was due to have been debated after a recommendation for a temporary approval for two years was made to Arun District Council's development control committee.

But councillors were told by their planning officer, Jonathan Parsons, at the meeting the matter needed to be put on hold.

"This matter was deferred from the meeting on November 26 and it has been withdrawn from this meeting to allow the case officer to do further research following receipt of additional information at a late stage.

"That additional information will be reported back to the development control committee at a later date."

The application has attracted protests from Eastergate Parish Council as well as 50 letters of objection from individuals.

Their opposition includes the fact the scheme is in an area outside that earmarked for development, would be out of keeping and its occupation could cause disruption in the neighbourhood.

But Mr Parsons, in his report to the committee, said the issue concerned the balance of human rights for travellers and established residents and planning laws.

It was accepted that Mr Young owned the land and had permission to use the access road from its owner, his brother, Patrick Young.

Previous applications for gipsy and traveller accommodation at Little Paddocks had been refused in the mid-90s. But circumstances had changed since government guidance issued in 2006.

It was considered that Mr Young's wish for two mobile homes, two caravans, a small amenity building with a bathroom and storage and parking fitted the requirements of the guidance because a proven need existed for such accommodation.

Any approval would be limited to Mr Young and named members of his family.

Failure to grant permission would leave the council open to a possible appeal by Mr Young with the likely prospect that he would win.

Mr Parsons stressed the application was separate to a study carried out for Arun into traveller accommodation around this district.

This was a long-term process towards identifying permanent sites and the granting of temporary permission for Mr Young would not prejudice the council's decision about the report's findings.

What do you think? Click here to send a letter or leave a comment below.

Click here to go back to Chichester news

Click here to go back to Bognor Regis news

Click here to go back to Midhurst and Petworth news

To tell us where in the world you are reading this story click on the link below to add yourself to our readers' map.

MAP