Land off Micklewood Lane, Penkridge, South Staffordshire, ST19 5SD

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• Whether the change of use to a gypsy and traveller site is inappropriate development in the Green Belt having regard to the National Planning Policy Framework (the Framework) and any relevant development plan policies.
• The effect of the proposal on the openness of the Green Belt.
• The effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the site and the surrounding area and Mansty Wood which is an ancient woodland.
• Whether any harm by reason of inappropriateness, and any other harm, would be clearly outweighed by other considerations, so as to amount to the very special circumstances required to justify the proposal.

What decided it

The cumulative weight of the considerations in favour of the appellant did not clearly outweigh the substantial harm to the Green Belt (openness) combined with the significant harm to character and appearance and the moderate weight attached to intentional unauthorised development, so very special circumstances were not established.

The significant/substantial harm to Green Belt openness and to character and appearance, combined with moderate weight against the appeal for intentional unauthorised development, was not clearly outweighed by the significant weight attached to unmet gypsy and traveller need, lack of supply, absence of alternative accommodation and personal circumstances including the best interests of the children; the balance therefore tipped against allowing the appeal.