Gypsy pitches planned in North Herefordshire

Four gypsy caravan pitches could be created near a north Herefordshire village.

An application by Richard Florence of Shrewsbury seeks permission for the four north of Orleton, “to meet a recognised need for such facilities in the area to accommodate a gypsy lifestyle”.

The site of just under an acre lies west of Orchard Farm off the B4362 between the hamlets of Portway and Comberton, where a mature orchard and hedgerow would screen it from the road.

There would be one mobile home and one touring caravan per pitch, as well as a timber-built utility and day room and new road access onto the B4362.

Herefordshire Council’s own assessment acknowledges a shortage of gypsy and traveller sites in the county, Mr Florence’s application says.

And with three caravan and park home sites within a mile, caravans “already form part of the character of the area” , it adds.

Comments on the planning application, numbered 233282, can be made until December 30.