Chris Thorley
Residents anger at possible plans to develop open countryside in Crewe for Gypsy sites or housing
RESIDENTS are up-in-arms over possible plans to develop a Crewe site for housing for Travellers.
Belinda Ryan
00:00, 9 FEB 2011
Land at the rear of Remer Street and Groby Road is one of a number of possible sites being considered for development.
Cllr Chris Thorley, who is backing the residents, said: "We object to any building at the rear of Remer Street by Groby Road and also to the setting up of sites for Travellers there.
"We need some open countryside around Crewe and this is open countryside. Also there is not the infrastructure to support it."
Cllr Jamie Macrae, cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said:
"The council is working across Cheshire East to improve provision for Gypsies and Travellers and is examining a number of options to achieve this – including the provision of new sites to meet the needs of the settled community and the transitory community."
"The Crewe and Nantwich area, in particular, has experienced a number of cases in recent years of unplanned Gypsy and Traveller sites being established and subsequently being granted planning permission following successful planning appeals, despite opposition by the council and the local community.
"These appeals have been lost in part because not enough Gypsy and Traveller sites have been provided in the area. This means that sites have been created in rural locations that are often considered unsuitable and where the management of the site is the private responsibility of the individuals who operate and own them. The council considers it essential that Gypsy and Traveller needs are met in a more structured and planned way – in locations that are appropriate and on sites where good management can be ensured.
"Accordingly, the council is carrying out preparatory work and assessments, as a preamble to the possible submission of planning applications for Gypsy and Traveller sites, at a number of locations across the southern area of the borough."
He said at this stage the work is preparatory and if planning applications are made, it will be done later in the year.
Any application will be accompanied by detailed information and provide a full opportunity for public comment and scrutiny of proposals.
Funds would also have to available of permissionwas granted.