A huge number of Axbridge residents have written to Somerset Council about the proposed traveller's camp on Fry's Hill behind Axbridge. 78 separate people have put pen to paper about the site, which is within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and borders a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Amongst the objections, local campaigner and Axevale District Councillor 2019 - 2023 Graham Godwin-Pearson wrote:-
To the chair of the Somerset North Planning Committee,
Further to the comments made by Axbridge Town Council and other interested parties, I do not believe that this site is suitable for a gypsy and traveller camp, or indeed any development, given its location within the AONB, its proximity to the busy bypass, and its relationship to nearby residential properties.
The A371 is a busy road and until speed limits are enforced with speed cameras, I don't believe that the unitary authority can justify allowing more entrances along this section of road.
In addition, the green field site is an important slice of the Mendip Hills AONB, bordering an SSSI. Protection of wildlife is enshrined in our planning laws. At some point we have to recognise that we need to conserve the character of our landscape and spaces for wildlife.
Approving the proposed currently modest development in this location would risk setting a precedent for further incremental development within these gentle slopes of the AONB behind Axbridge.
Graham Godwin-Pearson
In the main, the public comments focus on wildlife conservation on Fry's Hill, the proximity to the A371 and a lack of detail relating to sewage treatment, caravan placement and biodiversity net gain.
Graham says, "I don't remember a planning application receiving this many comments, aside from major developments such as housing estates. It shows the strength of feeling about this issue."
The proposed details are listed on Somerset Council's website here: Planning application 02/25/00030
