Plans for a three-caravan traveller site look set to be rejected by councillors - despite work on the pitches being completed, families moving in and support from neighbours.

An application has been made to Dover District Council for the accommodation on rural land south of Ferne Lane outside Ewell Minnis near Dover.

Ten letters of support have been received by the council over the development.

The applicant submitted the plans in June 2021, seeking approval for facilities to house three static caravans with associated hard-standing and landscaping.

Although the case is only now due to be heard at the district council’s planning committee tonight, a report by officers notes work to erect the accommodation began shortly after the application was received.

It states: “In August 2021, the site was occupied by the applicant and works to accommodate development and the stationing of three caravans on the site were carried out.

“A temporary stop notice was issued, but upon its expiration the development of the site continued and the applicant, family and associates occupied the land.”

'I know the applicants very well and they have always been lovely, kind people...'

The site of the caravans sits within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

This has led to objections from the Kent Downs AONB Unit and Alkham Parish Council, who say the proposals “will have unacceptable impacts on the character, appearance and visual amenity of the locality”.

The parish council says it does “not believe the applicant has demonstrated a clear foul drainage strategy” for the site.

Despite some opposition to the plans, a number of neighbour comments have been submitted in support of the proposals.

One said: “I know the applicants very well and they have always been lovely, kind people.

“They have been in the village for many, many years.

“They are always willing to help me and others out when needed.”

Planning documents also note: “The responses in support of the application recognise the contribution the applicant makes and has made along with his family to the local community/village.”

However, in conclusion, the report by officers to go before the planning committee recommends that the application is refused.

It states: “It is considered that the site is not in a suitably sustainable location and is not accessible to local services and facilities and by public transport.

“Whilst additional gypsy pitches would count towards the overall need for gypsy pitches for the lifetime of the emerging Local Plan, it is not considered that this outweighs or justifies what is an unacceptable form of development.

“At present, the council has a five year supply of gypsy pitches.”

The application will be heard by the planning committee when it meets at 6pm tonight.