A PLANNING inspector has ruled that a gypsy caravan site can be set up at Warrington – because it will improve the appearance of the area.
He has awarded costs against the borough council because of its “unreasonable behaviour” in failing to substantiate its 
reason for refusing planning consent in the first place.
Gypsy leader William Smith, who already owns a caravan site for travellers at Higher Walton, Warrington, will now be able to set up another for eight caravans at Brook House, Sandy Lane West, Orford.
Hundreds of local people objected to the scheme when it went before the borough’s development control committee – and councillors turned it down.
But Mr Smith appealed – and has now been informed he can go ahead.
Furious residents, backed by local councillors, are planning to challenge the decision in the High Court.
In his report on the appeal the inspector said caravans would differ in appearance from existing nearby housing but would not be out of keeping with the pattern of development in the area.
They would be less noticeable than the untidy grounds of Brook House and a large, dilapidated outbuilding which is to be demolished.
He added: “In its present condition, the site detracts from its surroundings. This is a situation where a gypsy site offers an opportunity to improve the local environment.”
There is also an urgent need for gypsy accommodation in the Warrington area, he said.
Coun Mike Hannon, who fought the scheme from the outset, said: “I am disappointed because I thought there were valid reasons for refusing this.
“It’s a densely populated area with high social deprivation figures and an existing traffic problem. This will make it even worse.”
