Local councillors have given approval for the construction of new travellers' pitches near the M5. Harry Attwell’s plans for two travellers' pitches, including day rooms, on a brownfield site on Vole Road in Brent Knoll, close to Junction 22 of the motorway, have been greenlit.
Mr. Attwell’s intention is to create a base for members of his family, including his soon-to-arrive granddaughter, while also supporting their existing business. Somerset Council’s planning committee north unanimously supported the proposals, paving the way for the site to be completed by Christmas.
The site is in proximity to the Westbrook Farm Caravan Park on Harp Road, which received permission to expand in September 2021. In addition to the pitches and day rooms, a barn and a stable block will be constructed to aid the family’s horse training business.
READ MORE: Plans to Double Council Tax on Second Homes in Bath
READ MORE: Campaign for Progress on New Somerset Railway Station
This location is just over one-and-a-half miles from the Edithmead roundabout, connecting the M5 to Highbridge via the A38 Bristol Road, which is part of a wider scheme to alleviate congestion between Highbridge and Bristol Airport at a cost of £6.4m. John Rooney of Stoke Morgan Planning, representing Mr. Attwell, emphasized the permanent base this will provide for his family, including his upcoming granddaughter and his son’s family.
The shortage of traveller provision in the former Sedgemoor district has led to several smaller sites being granted planning permission over the past year. Councillor Gill Slocombe (Bridgwater West) expressed the necessity of such sites, with no objections from local residents.
The committee unanimously approved the plans in under thirty minutes.