A CONTROVERSIAL site for gypsies and travellers is set to reopen next week according to proposals due to be approved by the council.
Strong opposition to the reopening of the council-run ‘emergency stopping place’ on Grange Lane at Stairfoot was voiced by residents at a public meeting last month - however, just six responses were submitted against the plans.
The 11-pitch site has a 14-day maximum stay but it had to be shut down soon after it opened in 2015 because the first travellers refused to leave for eight weeks, and there were many complaints of disruption to local residents.
The council is duty bound to provide an emergency stopping place for travellers and says when it reopens those using the site will have to adhere to strict new rules.
These include the signing of an agreement to comply with site rules and production of photographic ID, payment up front of £20 per week per caravan and a deposit, and a 14 day maximum stay. Families who break rules will never be allowed to return.
The report, to be voted on by cabinet on Wednesday, recommends the site reopen on Monday March 13.
