Ashley Fox MP has welcomed new Conservative proposals to clamp down on unauthorised traveller development, warning that stronger action is needed to restore fairness and protect communities across Somerset.
The plans aim to address what Conservatives describe as a growing problem in the planning system, where enforcement is too often delayed or undermined by legal loopholes. The Conservative plan includes several key measures designed to strengthen enforcement and close gaps in the current system. These include:
- Ending the use of retrospective planning applications for unauthorised caravan sites, so permission must be granted in advance
- Strengthening coordination between councils and police through updated statutory guidance
- Ensuring planning decisions are based on land use and local impact, not prolonged legal challenge
- Restoring protections for the Green Belt and open countryside
- Speeding up enforcement by reducing delays that currently allow unlawful developments to remain in place
Ashley Fox said the current system has created a “build now, apply later” culture, leaving councils struggling to act quickly while communities deal with the consequences. He says:
“At the moment, enforcement can be slow and inconsistent, and that undermines public confidence. Most people follow the rules. They apply for permission and wait for decisions. It is only right that the same standard is applied across the board.”
A recent example can be seen on Dunwear Lane in Bridgwater. Unlawful development of a caravan site along with excavation works were carried out and, while enforcement action was eventually taken, it came slowly. A retrospective planning application was later submitted but has since been refused by the authority. Despite this, works on the site are still ongoing.
Ashley Fox said that further reforms were also needed to deal with repeated unlawful encampments affecting residents and local businesses in Burnham-on-Sea. He said:
“These proposals are about restoring a basic principle, that the law should apply equally to everyone. In places like Burnham-on-Sea, we have seen unlawful encampments appear too often, causing disruption to residents and uncertainty for local traders. That cannot continue.”
He also warned that Somerset Council must be better prepared as unlawful encampments normally increase during the summer months saying:
“As we approach the warmer months, we know these issues can become more frequent. Somerset council needs to be ready, with clear plans to respond quickly and robustly to minimise disruption. That means working closely with the police, using the powers available, and being prepared to act without delay.”
