Burwell gypsy plan set for green light if East Cambs committee agree

A FORMER cold-store warehouse in Burwell looks likely to win consent to be converted into new plots for gypsies and travellers last night, despite concerns from villagers.

East Cambridgeshire District Council’s planning committee will be asked to approve the scheme despite objections from neighbours of the site and Burwell Parish Council.

Thomas Pateman wants to demolish the former cold store, on First Drove, and use the land for six new plots for caravans for his family.

Neighbours are unhappy and say the caravans will damage the visual amenity of the area, increase traffic and create excessive noise.

The parish council believes that approving the plans could result in the loss of a valuable industrial site.

But planning officer Alkis Riziotis says the site “is currently in a disused state, with derelict buildings and a frequent dumping ground.

“There would clearly be a significant improvement in the landscape of the

locality if the land were brought back into beneficial use.”

Mr Pateman says he will live on the first plot and manage the rest. Each plot will comprise a mobile home, touring caravan and a dayroom.