Plans rejected for controversial travellers’ caravan site near Retford

The site, off Retford Road in Haughton, would have included four pitches, each with a mobile home, dayroom, touring caravan and parking.

Local residents feared it would be out of keeping with the area – particularly the remains of a nearby listed motte and bailey castle, which dates back to the 11th century.

Bassetlaw Council’s planning officers ruled against the plans due to environmental impact, highway safety, intruding on the countryside and the effect on a historic monument.

The application was submitted by the landowner William Finney.

Slightly larger versions of the same plan had also been turned down several times.

A total of 44 local residents had submitted objections, with none writing in favour.

A Walesby resident said: “This is a repeat submission, possibly the fourth, of a similar application which was rejected and subsequently failed at appeal, in around 2015.

“Frankly, enough is enough!

“The application would be visually obtrusive, out-of-character with the location, and could seriously compromise the nearby historically important features of the remains of a motte and bailey castle and one of the finest remaining duck decoys in Europe.”

Another said: “This is a very quiet secluded area for horses to graze, wildlife and natural habitat to thrive.

“The last thing we need is noise and disruption – this is countryside and woodland at its best.”

A third added: “Awful use of the land, the land is absolutely fine as it is.”

The site would have also led directly onto a 60mph stretch of Retford Road, causing road safety concerns.