PLANS to turn farmland in Wilburton into six travelling showman s yards have been given the go-ahead by councillors. An overwhelming majority of councillors sitting on the planning committee on Wednesday (Dec 2) agreed to back the plans despite widesprea

PLANS to turn farmland in Wilburton into six travelling showman's yards have been given the go-ahead by councillors.

An overwhelming majority of councillors sitting on the planning committee on Wednesday (Dec 2) agreed to back the plans despite widespread concern from local residents and from South-East Cambridgeshire MP, Jim Paice.

Under to the plans, around three acres of uncultivated farmland along Whitecross Road in the village will be converted into six showman's yards complete with mobile home pitches for up to 18 caravans.

Cllr Bill Hunt, representing Wilburton at district and county level, told the Ely Standard: "I was surprised that I was the only one who voted against these plans, I think they are unsuitable and I think it is irresponsible to build on what may well soon become a flood plain.

"Promises were made that improvement work will be carried out to the track leading into the site and I hope for the sake of the area that that work is completed before people move onto the site."

Wilburton Parish Council also voiced its concern at the plans, citing the loss of agricultural land, the possibility of flooding and poor vehicle access in objections to the planning committee.

Brimble Lee & Partners, the firm which drew-up the plans, has agreed to meet a number of stipulations laid down by the council including the planting of a boundary hedge, road improvements and an assessment of the site drainage.