South Downs Authority oppose travellers using 19 Acres site

The use of the 19 Acres site by travellers is a contradiction to the purposes of the South Downs National Park, according to the chair of the park’s authority.

Margaret Paren’s opposition to the occupation of the site, which is located just off Devil’s Dyke Road, by the travelling community has been welcomed by ward councillors Ann and Ken Norman, who have spoken out against the ‘serious damage’ caused to the downland location.

She said: “The purpose of the South Downs National Park Authority is to conserve and enhance the wildlife, natural beauty and cultural heritage of the national park, and to promote the enjoyment and understanding of the national park’s special qualities, and the occupation of 19 Acres by travellers is clearly in contradiction to these purposes.”

The site has regularly been occupied by travellers and those currently situated there are to be moved on after possession proceeding were initiated by the council.

However, the Withdean councillors have accused the Green Party of treating 19 Acres as a ‘tolerated’ site for travellers.

The Green Party has insisted its policy is to find a permanent location for travellers, but in the meantime has faced a running battle over the summer with groups arriving at various parks in the city.

Cllr Ken Norman said: “I am frankly appalled by the damage to nature and wildlife that has been caused by the Green’s decision to use 19 Acres as a traveller site.

“It was done without any consultation with us as ward councillors, or more importantly, with local residents and other users of the site.

“I call on them now to heed Margaret Paren’s words and ensure that our precious downland is no longer used as a campsite, temporary or otherwise.”

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Posted by Joseph Lewis on September 15, 2011. Filed under Brighton and Hove News,Council News,Latest News,Withdean,Withdean. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry