CONTROVERSIAL plans for a gipsy caravan site featuring 36 buildings are set to go to a local public inquiry after an appeal against Wychavon District Council's decision to reject them.

Planning officers refused permission for a change of use application on the land at Duffledown View at Wyre Piddle bypass, Upper Moor.

Mr A Richards wants permission to put up nine chalet-style mobile homes on the site. The structures are two-part buildings carried on low-loader lorries and bolted together on site.

Each of the chalets would be accompanied by a touring caravan, a shed and an amenity block featuring toilet and shower and kitchen facilities.

But the application was refused on the grounds it was in open countryside, would be intrusive because of a lack of screening, and that there are no existing buildings on the land.

Officers said the development would be too far from necessary facilities and services and would set an unwelcome precedent, would contravene county and district plans and is in an area of archaeological importance. And officers say the applicants have no strong ties to the district which would mean a need to accommodate them.

Mr Richards appealed against the decision at the start of December and it will now go to a public inquiry, unless it is called in by the Secretary of State. But it could be months before the inquiry reaches a decision.

Any submissions regarding the appeal can be tendered until Wednesday and then officers have a further six weeks to send the initial paperwork to the planning inspectorate in Bristol. After that a date will be fixed for the inquiry where both parties will be allowed to put forward their arguments.