Single traveller pitch at Land at Llyndir Lane, Rossett, Wrexham

What was proposed

The retrospective proposal was for one traveller pitch with caravans, a dayroom, hardstanding, sewage treatment, improved access and a pony paddock.

“MAN TROI / CHANGE OF USE OF AGRICULTURAL LAND TO GYPSY/TRAVELLER SITE FOR SINGLE FAMILY PITCH INCLUDING BIO-DISC SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT AND IMPROVED VEHICULAR ACCESS, HARD STANDING AND TURNING AREA”

“Proposal The proposal is 'retrospective' and relates to the change of use of land to provide for 1 no. traveller pitch to include 1 no. static caravan (mobile home), 1 no. touring caravan, 1 no. dayroom, general hardstanding, bio-disc treatment plant and amendments to vehicular entrance with pony paddock.”

Officer report

The site and its setting

The site was a flat triangular area outside Rossett, about 300 metres from the village, surrounded by hedgerows and open countryside.

“Site Description The site is located just outside the settlement known as Rossett on a site that is within a reasonable walking distance of the village (approximately 300 metres). It is triangular in shape and generally a flat site surrounded by open countryside. The site itself is surrounded with native hedgerows and was previously used as grassland for livestock grazing. A ditch runs alongside the site's eastern boundary.”

Officer report

Objections from residents

Nineteen objections cited agricultural land loss, policy conflict, highway danger, ecological harm, flooding, visual effects, refuse collection and possible future expansion.

“Principle of development • Loss of fertile agricultural land • The development on site is not in keeping with the prevailing theme of the built character of the nearby settlement. • Development not in accordance with the local plan.”

“Ecology/ environmental impact • Pulford Brook runs along the field as well as the ancient St Peter's well • Any waste water from animal waste, cleaning etc could run off into the local stream • Large hedgerow removed in nesting season to accommodate development • Installation of a timber fence alongside the roadside is not in keeping with the character of the surrounding area. • Artificial light pollution. • Concerns about refuse collection from the site.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The agent spoke in favour, while the local member raised concerns about the Green Wedge, precedent, flood data and the welfare of future occupiers.

What members discussed

Members considered the Green Wedge review, development need, visual impact, highways, ecology, flood evidence, family stability and foul sewer connection distances.

“This document is also available in Welsh This Committee’s meetings are webcast and can be viewed by visiting the webcast library at: https://wrexham.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcasts • Members were advised that the site lay outside the settlement boundary and within the Green Wedge. However, a Green Wedge review had concluded that the area did not fully satisfy the criteria for Green Wedge designation.”

“Members commented that the site appeared to have been developed to a high standard, and a number highlighted the importance of providing stability for the family. It was proposed that planning permission be granted.”

Minutes

The committee vote

The committee resolved to grant permission in accordance with the officer recommendation.

“RESOLVED - That permission be granted in accordance with the Officer recommendation.”

Minutes