West Berkshire traveller site decision delayed
The site has links with the death of Thames Valley Police officer Andrew Harper
The gypsy site linked to the death of PC Andrew Harper looked set to get a multi-million pound upgrade approved.
But the council removed the item last minute from it’s planning meeting agenda this week following a late objection to the application from Thames Valley Police.
PC Harper died after being dragged along the road by quad bike thieves.
West Berkshire Council is applying for planning permission from itself – but delayed approving it on officers’ recommendations last year – after PC Harper’s mother pleaded with them to not allow gypsy travellers back.
“I can’t take this laying down for Andrew, his memory and his colleagues,” said his mother Debbie Adlam at the last meeting. “They remain haunted by the events of that night.
“I have to protect his memory. We will never be able to move on and that connection to the site will remain forever.”
But her request only earned a delay on the decision for refurbishment of the site at Four Houses Corner in Ufton Nervet, said to cost around ÂŁ3m.
But now that decision has been deferred again.
Thames Valley Police objection raises issues of public safety and policing on the site and echoes concerns and objections raised by local residents.
Henry Long, from Mortimer, was arrested at Four Houses Corner before he was convicted and jailed for 16 years for the manslaughter of PC Harper. His accomplices Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole were each given 13 years.
The application seeks planning permission for the creation of 17 permanent gypsy and traveller pitches with associated hardstanding, car parking spaces, day rooms and a children’s play area.