West Berkshire Council considers gypsy/traveller site expansion sited along A4 at Beenham

West Berkshire Council is considering a proposed expansion to a gypsy/traveller site.

The application, submitted in June, seeks permission to demolish an existing unauthorised stables block and to provide an additional four gypsy/traveller pitches — yielding an increase of four static caravans and four touring caravans — on land adjacent to Old Forge House along the A4 at Beenham.

Beenham Parish Council will consider the application at its upcoming meeting on Monday, August 7.

Meanwhile, other consultees have already responded.

Fisher German LLP says the proposed development will be within close proximity to Exolum apparatus — which deals with the transportation and storage of oil products — restricting access to the pipeline for routine maintenance and in an emergency situation.

Highways also responded today (Wednesday) saying how the proposal will create an increased frequency of movement to and from the site, which is directly accessed from the A4.

A highways spokesperson said: “Given the number of units proposed and the increased frequency of movement, it is requested the gates are set-back or removed to enable a car towing a caravan to exit the carriageway prior to opening any gates. The gates should therefore be set-back at least 12 metres.”

The district council is due to decide the proposal by September 11.