Resignation call after Somerset Traveller site bid fails

"GYPSIES living illegally on land owned by a district councillor near Bruton are facing eviction after plans for a permanent traveller site there were thrown out.

Henry Hobhouse, who represents the Castle Cary ward on South Somerset District Council, came under fire when his planning application was discussed by the authority's area east committee last week​

The application was refused on the grounds of there being no permanent water supply on the site off Green Lane, Pitcombe, as well as concerns over road safety and sustainability. Pitcombe residents claim Mr Hobhouse has flouted planning law by allowing caravans onto the land without permission two years ago.

Mr Hobhouse refused to confirm if he was going to appeal the decision. If he does not, enforcement action will be taken to ensure the caravans and Travellers are removed.

Villagers feared that if approved, the site could become overrun with caravans and turn into another Dale Farm, the former Essex scrapyard at the centre of a national Gypsy eviction row.

District councillor for Tower Ward, Mike Beech has called for the resignation of Mr Hobhouse.
"There has been a total lack of democracy and Mr Hobhouse should not have been allowed the caravans to stay on his land for so long," he told the meeting.
"He has told us there is a water supply to the land when there has not been anything there for 20 years.
"I think he should be kicked off the district council with immediate effect."