DISAPPOINTED Weeley residents have lost the battle against the creation of a controversial caravan site.

In 2011 traveller Tom Doran launched an application to build a 20-pitch holiday park at Starena Lodge in Weeley, near his three-pitch travellers’ site in Gutteridge Hall Lane.

The initial application was rejected by Tendring Council.

But after Mr Doran appealed the decision, a three-day inquiry was held by planning inspector Clive Hughes.

And it has now been announced the appeal was upheld, with Mr Doran receiving permission for his 20-pitch site subject to meeting 16 imposed conditions.

Weeley residents are upset to have lost the battle after offering strong opposition to the application.

Objections were submitted during the inquiry by Weeley Parish Council, Little Clacton Parish Council and a host of other groups.

Weeley Parish Council chairman Mike Brown said: “A lot of fierce objections were raised all the way through this process and everyone is bitterly disappointed at the decision."

Campaigners said there were already plenty of vacancies in existing Weeley sites and raised concerns over the flooding risk on the site.

A series of conditions were given by the planning inspector which must be adhered to.

They include restricting caravans to holiday use, banning development until water drainage and foul sewage systems are approved and getting a site management scheme in place.