Planning Inspector Over-Rules Council To Allow Extra Pitches At Travellers’ Site

A planning inspector has over-ruled Harborough District Council and given the go-ahead for four extra pitches to be created at a travellers’ site near Lutterworth.

The plan was refused last year, but following an appeal and public inquiry the inspector has granted permission for the expansion of the Mere Lane site near Bitteswell.

Over 200 people objected to the proposal, which was refused by the authority’s planning committee because it said there were already enough pitches in the district for the traveller community.

Applicant Tracey Macready challenged the council after wanting to add the pitches to make space for his extended family.

In allowing the Appeal, the Inspector said: “A number of interested parties raise the effect of the development on local fear of crime. In this regard, issues relating to the existing wider site at Mere Lane were described at the hearing.

“However, there is no evidence before me linking the appellant or any of the intended occupants of the development with criminal activity or anti-social behaviour.

“Furthermore, Leicestershire Police Designing out Crime Officer and the Multi Agency Traveller Unit (MATU), which also involves the police did not raise any concerns.”