PLANS for a controversial gypsy site in Elmstead Market have been recommended for approval by planners.

Two Irish traveller families wanted to put four caravans on land next to the pump station in Clacton Road, but the plans were withdrawn before a planning meeting in August.

Fresh plans for three caravans, hard standing, a utility block, fencing and foul drainage arrangements have been recommended for approval by Tendring Council planning officers.

A report by officers said: “This is an exceptional permission which is justified for a temporary period due to the personal circumstances of the applicants and their Irish traveller status.

“A planning permission for a limited period is considered appropriate in accordance with the guidance given the current lack of suitable alternative sites in the district.

“On balance, taking account of all material considerations, including human rights' matters, a temporary permission for three years is considered appropriate.”

Brothers Larry and Michael Doran own the site, which currently houses a mobile home, two caravans and a portable toilet.

The families’ agent, Alison Heine, said Larry Doran’s children go to school in Alresford and their need for education weighs heavily in support of the plans.

It is recommended that if the family stop using the site, then the temporary permission should cease and all caravans and mobile homes should be removed.

Elmstead Market Parish Council previously said the plans would erode the “character” of the village and the site is “totally inadequate”.

This site would form part of Tendring’s requirement to provide 15 traveller pitches by 2011.

A decision on the application will be made by Tendring Council’s planning committee tomorrow.