Travellers have bought land where they reside

which was causing them a lot of problems. This housing is not what they are used to and it does have an effect on travellers’ mental health. I know this is difficult for people who live in houses to understand but travellers do have an aversion to living in bricks and mortar.”

He confirmed that they had not moved far and had bought the green belt land which the site is on.

And he also said the family was applying to Catholic schools where their children can be taught. The nearest ones are around 10 miles away.

Kirklees Council has written to the developer stating: “There is insufficient information to show that the applicant and his family meet the classification of “gypsies and travellers”.”

The council has asked for more information. The closing date for objections to the proposal has now closed.

A Kirklees Council spokesperson said: “There is no requirement upon the applicant or the council to advertise an application as retrospective. The planning application was submitted shortly after the appearance of the caravans and includes details confirming the development had taken place prior to the submission of the application.

“Planning applications are considered on their own merits irrespective of whether or not development has already taken place.

“An existing enforcement notice issued by the council against the works to form the hardstanding and bund at the site was issued prior to the caravans appearing and has been appealed by the applicant.

“This appeal will now be considered by the Planning Inspectorate.

“The council will consider all of its enforcement options in the event of refusal of either or both of these applications.” Mobile homes (to the left) on land off New Hey Road, Scammonden near the former Nont Sarah’s pub and Moorlands Restaurant