April Fools decision on Tipton gypsy site?

A DECISION over the possibility that Tipton St John s Woods Farm Recycling Centre might be closed to house travellers and gypsies could be made in April.

A DECISION over the possibility that Tipton St John's Woods Farm Recycling Centre might be closed to house travellers and gypsies could be made in April.

The Herald reported earlier this month that the county council owned site and land less than a mile away at the Bowd, Sidmouth have been earmarked by East Devon District Council as suitable pitches.

The issue of East Devon's gypsy and traveller needs and site provision is set to be considered by EDDC's development control on March 10 before it is referred to the council's executive board on April 1, where a decision could be made.

A report on the issue was due to be discussed in private by EDDC's executive board earlier this month but was withdrawn after its inclusion on an agenda was explained as a "clerical error".

It is thought sites at Iron Bridge, near the A30, Honiton, and a field near Exmouth's recycling centre in Salterton Road are also among areas deemed suitable to house travellers and gypsies by EDDC as it bids to meet Government demands to provide a further nine pitches by 2011.