Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Residents near a newly developed site in Willows Green, Essex, have expressed concerns about the swift construction of what is believed to be an unauthorized traveller site. The area, a four-acre field, was rapidly transformed after work began late on a Friday, coinciding with the local council’s closure for the bank holiday weekend. Within days, much of the land was covered in concrete and dotted with both static and mobile caravans.
Uttlesford District Council acknowledged the situation as an “alleged unauthorised development” and stated that they are actively investigating the matter. Sherrie Smith, a campaigner advocating for traveller rights, explained that those responsible for the development were making efforts to be accommodating and polite, even apologizing for any inconvenience caused to local residents. Despite this, the matter has drawn criticism from local officials including Braintree MP and former Tory Home Secretary Sir James Cleverly, who accused the travellers of exploiting enforcement gaps during the council’s off-hours.
Several villagers shared their distress over how the site’s construction unfolded, likening the scale and speed of the operation to a “military operation.” One anonymous resident described how around 30 lorries delivered materials under cover of darkness as work started, remarking: “The sheer scale and enormity of it is breathtaking.” Concerns were also raised about the lack of consideration for environmental factors such as wildlife, ecology, pollution, and drainage. Another nearby resident, Tracy Williams, stated that many people felt “really upset, scared, intimidated” by the developments, adding that it was an “uncomfortable” situation.
The project’s impact on the village has been deeply upsetting, with some residents reporting heightened stress and sleepless nights. A further anonymous local alleged a drone had been deployed to monitor observers, underscoring the organized nature of the site’s establishment. Sherrie Smith highlighted ongoing difficulties faced by the traveller community in obtaining planning permissions, suggesting that applying for permission after the fact is sometimes preferred due to systemic biases. She met with the landowners, who are cousins aiming to create a better future for their children, and shared their apologies to the surrounding residents. Uttlesford District Council confirmed they are working swiftly to assess the situation fully and consider enforcement actions in line with their statutory powers
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.