Victory in sight for caravan dwellers

A caravan site in the Forest of Dean could soon receive official planning permission from the local council.

Residents have been living at the Clanna Country Park in Alvington for around 20 years and have been in discussions with the planning department over the past two decades to remove restrictions on their ability to reside on the site all year long, reports the Forester.

The Forest of Dean District Council had raised concerns that allowing the 33 static caravans to become permanent dwellings could set a precedent and was in contradiction to planning guidelines.

Daniel Thomas, who spoke to council on behalf of the residents of Clanna Country Park , said: "To say we're confused with the council's choice to refuse this application is something of an understatement."

"Many of us have nowhere else to go. We want to live the rest of our lives in peace and security," he added.

However, it is now hoped that the ruling could be lifted and an agreement finally reached to ensure security for the residents.

Local councillor James Bevan said: "I support lifting the conditions to give them the peace of mind they deserve. These are upstanding citizens and I feel this is the best solution we can come up with."

13/09/2007 14:14:19