Councillors have approved a retrospective application for a gypsy/traveller residential plot.
The plot, plus related seven metre by six metre ‘day room’, on Raven’s Gate in Holbeach St Johns came before South Holland District Council’s Planning Committee last week.
Councillors were split on the application arguing about the effect the development in open countryside has on the road, but they were told Lincolnshire County Council’s Highways department had raised no objections.
One nearby resident Mrs D Ellis spoke to the meeting objecting to the proposal.
“We’ve lived on Ravens Gate Road for well over 30 years and we’ve watched the road become busier.
“It’s very dangerous road that’s too fast.
“I don’t think Highways have looked closely enough and they should consider extending the 40mph speed limit.”
Coun Andrew Woolf floated the idea that the matter be deferred so Highways could have another look at the application.
Coun Allan Beal said: “There have already been serious accidents and to come back and say they were minor, when they were nigh on deadly, is ridiculous.”
The vote was split with five councillors voting each way.
That led to chair Coun Andrew Woolf having the deciding vote.
He chose to go with the planning officer’s reccomendations and pass the proposal saying: “Highways accept there’s been incidents on this road. There’s anecdotal evidence of situations but not a great deal of actual evidence.”
