Two gypsy and traveller pitches at Happymeadows Keswick, Hall Road, Keswick

“Change of use from Agricultural and Equestrian, with the siting of caravans for intermittent residential use to a mix of Agricultural, Equestrian and Gypsy and Traveller residential use (part retrospective)”

“2024/1416 and it notes that the land mentioned in the application is located in the Southern bypass protection zone and does not feature as land to be developed as part of the Greater Norwich Local Plan, being outside of the development boundary.”

“Comments on amended plans Notes that the land is located in the Southern bypass protection zone and does not feature as land to be developed in the GNLP. The PC is also extremely concerned about the increased traffic using Bridle Land and Keswick Hall Road which are currently unlit rural road with no pathway for pedestrians.”

“Having regard to the requirements of Policy 5 of the GNLP: • The application site is considered to be within a reasonable travelling distance of schools, services and shops. Though it is noted that there is likely to be a reliance on private vehicles due to distance to nearest public transport. • Suitable vehicular access to the site can be achieved, and subject to a condition in respect to passing places no objection has been received from the Highways Authority.”

“Consideration has been given to the lack of a five year supply for gypsy and traveller provision. Whilst a nutrient neutrality solution has not currently come forward for the site, it is considered that a solution (for instance through the purchasing of nutrient credits) would be feasible for the site. Once a solution is agreed the tilted balance would be relevant. This site would provide two pitches which would help towards the Councils undersupply of provision.”

“Conservation And Tree Officer No objection to the proposal.”

“The increased use of Keswick Hall Road westwards of Bridle Lane, will result in the increased likelihood of vehicles needing to pass on that section. It is therefore recommended that a couple of informally surfaced passing places be formed, prior to the site being brought into use for the two mobile homes. The passing places should be of a suitable size for a vehicle and trailer.”

“Three comments have been received in support of the application…”

“Six comments have been received objecting to the application setting out concerns in relation to: • Increase in traffic along Keswick Hall Lane • Additional noise and disturbance • Adverse impacts on natura and wildlife • Loss of value of house and other residents on Keswick Hall • No proven need for the change of use of land • Road is narrow, and has no pavements or street lights. It is unsuitable for touring caravans.”

“Members voted 5-0 with one abstention for approval with Conditions.”

“Time Limit 2. Submitted Drawings 3. Occupation restricted to gypsy and travellers 4. Passing Paces 5. Foul Drainage 6. Surface water drainage 7. Landscaping 8. Noise mitigation 9. Unexpected Contamination 10.T.b.c. conditions related to nutrient neutrality mitigation 11. Restriction on number of nights additional caravans can stay for. Restriction on area of use for caravans on site…”