PLANS have been submitted to Colchester Council to create ten pitches for travellers.

The mobile home pitches are planned for land behind Goodwins Farm in Crepping Hall Road, Wakes Colne.

The applicant, Freddy Eastwood, hopes to build on the site which is currently used as a pony paddock.

The new travellers’ site, if approved, will include a children’s play area.

But Colchester councillor Peter Chillingworth, whose ward covers Wakes Colne, said ten pitches was a “substantial amount”.

He said: “I don’t think many residents have noticed the plans so I haven’t had anyone locally asking about it but I have no doubt they will.

“The site itself has a planning history. It’s on 30 acres of grassland which was bought by an equestrian businessman.

“He never went ahead with his plans but sold the land onto someone else who again tried to establish a business there but failed.

“This applicant is wanting the land from a different perspective.”

Apart from the application form itself there are only two other documents showing drawings of the plans.

It is understood planning officers have advised Mr Eastwood withdraw his application and submit a new one with more details included.

Mr Chillingworth said: “We already have another site here near Wakes Colne called Orchard Close.

“It is made up of three pitches but they include other vehicles like cars and the infrastructure that goes with it.

“What is being asked for this time is quite substantial.”

A total of 16 car parking spaces would be created as a result if the scheme is given the go-ahead.

Colchester Council will have the final say over plans.