Solihull planners in green belt Gypsy row

Oct 20 2010 by Sophie Cross, Birmingham Mail

PLANNING chiefs could approve proposals for a permanent gypsy camp on Midland green belt land – ahead of the results of a public consultation over the issue.

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council is to consider an application to establish three pitches at land off Salter Street, in Earlswood, at a planning committee tonight.

Officers have recommended the scheme be approved with conditions.

But Meriden Conservative MP Caroline Spelman has raised concerns over the development of the green belt land.

She is also worried about the fact that the Government has yet to issue guidance to local councils about the provision of travellers’ sites.

It is not the first time Meriden residents have found themselves fighting unauthorised gypsy camps on green belt land.