Green Belt Vandalized: Caravan Park Demolition Ordered

A six-acre plot of green belt land near Burtonwood, Cheshire, has been ordered for demolition after being unlawfully transformed into a caravan park. Heavy machinery was used over a Bank Holiday weekend to concreted the area and erect fencing, with 13 caravans moving in within 72 hours. Local residents expressed significant anger and lodged numerous objections, fearing the development would be allowed to remain. Warrington Borough Council investigated the unauthorized work and subsequently submitted an enforcement notice.

Following the sale of the land, the new owner, John Very, submitted a retrospective planning application to establish a gypsy and traveller residential site. However, the council rejected the bid, citing concerns about safe and suitable access for all users, the lack of pedestrian infrastructure, and the site's unsustainable nature. The proposal was deemed to have an unacceptable impact on the adjacent road and would not provide suitable access for local services or encourage sustainable transport modes.

Councillor Stuart Mann stated his concerns were always about landowners bypassing the standard planning process. He acknowledged local frustration when rules are not followed. The council's decision notice confirmed that the proposed development did not meet the Local Plan Sustainability Appraisal criteria. Consequently, the owner is now obligated to dismantle the concrete development and restore the land.