Planning inspector to decide fate of gypsy traveller site in Hermitage

A planning appeal has been lodged against West Berkshire Council’s refusal of a gypsy traveller site off Hampstead Norreys Road in Hermitage.

The site has angered locals as the development has already taken place, and the application - which was ultimately rejected - was retrospective.

The council rejected the plans for five gypsy and traveller site pitches as it is in the National Landscape and also because of increased hardstanding and non-permeable material to be placed across the application site, with associated works/stationing of sanitary units.

The local planning authority, on behalf of the lead local flood authority, says it is not satisfied with the details and quality of the drainage information submitted with the application.

The council is also unhappy that the development has an unauthorised vehicle access on to the B4009, saying visibility is inadequate for the identified traffic speeds along the highway.

In addition, there is no pedestrian link to the village of Hermitage and its facilities.

The matter will now be decided by the government planning inspector.