Application for Royal Wootton Bassett gypsy site resubmitted again

According to the plans, this latest proposal has been redesigned to “minimise harm” to the nearby public right of way.

However, after the previous application received more than 30 letters of objection, a local resident has described this resubmission as “an onslaught” to the village.

READ MORE: Royal Wootton Bassett gypsy caravan site refused after criticisms

The proposal for each pitch incorporates one mobile home and one touring caravan, as well as a utility/dayroom. (Image: Green Planning Studio) The site is located at Clay Pitts in Greenhill, an area approximately 3.5 miles from the centre of Royal Wootton Bassett.

The planning statement submitted on behalf of the applicant reads: “The pitches are now located behind existing buildings on site and in an area of the site that benefits from a gradual slope to further minimise views from the public footpath.

“This new location is also adjacent to the settlement Green Hill.

“This new placement will minimise the visual impact of the development and the proposal will no longer introduce an arrangement of built form in an area currently free from development.

“Landscaping has also been proposed to screen the site from public view along the footpath.

“The pitches will therefore not be prominently visible when walking along the footpath which was the case before.”

However, local resident Susie Griffin has objected to the new plans.

She wrote: “It is wholly unsettling that there are constant resubmissions of the same request meaning objections having to be placed over and over again which is now negatively impacting myself.

“I feel this is an onslaught to the village.

“I do not support the change of use, all previous objections from myself still stand and I wish to be considered alongside this renewed objection.

“This is not a viable or suitable location, it is not in line with the current or future neighbourhood plans.”

SEE ALSO: Wiltshire Council's Gypsy and Traveller plan opens for consultation

Wiltshire Council recently acknowledged a need to provide 128 permanent pitches for Gypsies and Travellers and 9 plots for travelling showpeople by 2038.

The document that outlines the proposed sites is currently out for public consultation until October 4.

This application for Royal Wootton Bassett argues that the pitches at Clay Pitts will help to meet this figure.

It also notes that the pitches have been designed with reference to the standards in a good practice guide often used as the starting point for such pitches.

It states: “The applicant seeks planning permission for two residential pitches to meet a recognised need in the area and to facilitate a gypsy lifestyle.”