Residents raise concerns over environmental impact of proposed travellers' site

A PATCH of equestrian land in the south of the borough will become a double-pitch travellers’ site, under new plans.

Applicant Mr T Fletcher has requested a change of use for a quarter of an acre off Cricket Field Lane, Wales.

The planning papers note that the triangular paddock is designated as green space but says it does not serve the functions of that category.

They add: “The site provides no recreational or amenity value to nearby residents and has no other attributes of green space.”

About a dozen objections have been received so far by Rotherham Council.

One Wallingfield Court resident said: “While I understand the need for traveller accommodation, I strongly believe that this particular proposal is not suitable for the area and would have a detrimental impact on both myself and the surrounding community.

“The access road to the site isn’t very wide and certainly is not suitable for caravans. This would also result in an increase in traffic, noise, and other forms of disturbance for myself and my neighbours.

“Additionally, I am concerned about the potential effect on the natural environment.

“The site is located in a area with a lot of greenery and wildlife and the construction and operation of the traveller site would have a negative impact on the local ecosystem.”