South West Norfolk MP visits proposed Travellers site in West Dereham
She heard from local residents, businesses and councillors
South West Norfolk MP Liz Truss has visited the proposed Site on Station Road, West Dereham.
She heard from local residents, businesses and councillors as to why they are opposed to the proposal, saying it would have a detrimental impact on the local community and businesses.
Following the visit, Liz Truss said:
"There are concerns on a number of fronts about this proposal. The single track road adjacent to the site offers limited access and would provide inadequate parking for residents and travellers alike. The track also has inadequate drainage and is not suitable to support a travellers' site.
"The land on Station Road is currently farmland and the change of use to a travellers' site would present further challenges regarding water, sewage and additional pressure on infrastructure. The farmland conversion would also threaten flora and fauna, and I gather the RSPCA have concerns about the wellbeing of local wildlife.
"I also heard from several local businesses which would either be forced to close or be adversely affected by the establishment of a travellers' site here. Taking all these concerns together, this is why I have made a formal objection to the proposal.
Other concerns included excessive noise, increased traffic flow through the village and night-time lighting.
Ahead of the matter being put to the planning committee in February of next year, Liz has written to King's Lynn and West Norfolk Council formally objecting to the proposed site.
Her objection is on public file alongside the objections of 98 others.