Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

Formal Objection - - Traveller DPD Consultation Reference (C4S019) The Meadow, Chartway Street, Sutton Valence ME17 3JB (C4S019) Proposal: allocation of15 additional Traveller pitches adjacent to 35+ existing pitches (in Pitt Road, Crossdrive, Chartway Street) The proposed allocation would create over 50 pitches in one small rural area, contrary to PPTS, DPD Policy GT1 and Local Plan SP17. This level of concentration places an unfair burden on the local community and risks undermining long-established positive relations between Traveller and settled residents. Infrastructure is already at capacity: local schools are full, the nearest GP is closed to new patients, and utilities are under pressure. Planning policy requires adequate infrastructure, which is not available here. Highway safety is a major concern. Chartway Street carries heavy HGV traffic, and Traveller children regularly use pony-drawn carts along this hazardous route. Pitt Road is a single-track lane used as a rat-run, with a blind-bend junction onto Chartway Street. Any increase in traffic would worsen existing dangers (NPPF 111, DM1). The proposal would harm amenity, biodiversity and rural character (DM1, DM3, DM30; PPTS Policies H & C). The site forms part of a biodiversity corridor, and further development risks fragmentation. Inspectors recognise that perceived harm to character and amenity is a legitimate material consideration. There are already 10 pitches immediately adjoining the site, and a high-pressure gas main runs along the western boundary, raising safety constraints under HSE PADHI and PPTS Policy H. The cumulative impact of existing and proposed pitches has not been assessed. The allocation conflicts with the borough's spatial strategy, which seeks proportionate, well-distributed provision across multiple settlements. The DPD identifies several alternative areas capable of accommodating need more sustainably. Conclusion: The Meadow (Reference C4S019) is inconsistent with national and local policy, and should be removed from the Traveller DPD / Local Plan allocations.