PLANS have been unanimously approved to turn a temporary traveller site into permanent base.

The application, for land next to Gravel Hill, in Shirrell Heath, was granted by Winchester City Council’s planning committee with little debate.

An application for three pitches at the site had been approved in February 2017, under the condition that it would last until February 2019, as the city council was still drawing up its Gypsy & Traveller Development Plan Document (DPD).

Shedfield Parish Council objected to the plan, arguing Shirrell Heath is an unsustainable village and the site causes nuisance and distress to neighbours.

The plans also received objections from four homes in the area, citing the extra burden on amenities such as schools and heath services.