Guildford gypsy and traveller site could be expanded Published duration 7 March 2012

A caravan site near Guildford could be expanded after the borough council decided to increase the number of gypsy and traveller pitches.

Guildford Borough Council found adding more pitches to the site at Ash Bridge to be the most suitable solution to an urgent need for more pitches.

Five new pitches could be provided at the site, which currently has 13.

The council said they were also considering potential sites in Shalford and Effingham.

'Unauthorised development'

Councillor Jenny Wicks said: "We have an established gypsy and traveller community in the borough which has an urgent, unmet need for additional pitches.

"By planning for more pitches we hope to reduce unauthorised development and temporary permissions granted through the appeals process."

The council's executive has approved the proposed expansion to Ash Bridge caravan site and a planning application will now be prepared.

The council said it would continue to liaise with the residents of the current pitches and keep them informed of progress.