Devon traveller site expansion plan is approved

The site at Hawkchurch will expand to nearly twice its current size

Plans to expand a gypsy and traveller site in Devon have been given permission by councillors, despite protests from nearby villagers.

East Devon councillors said the site at Hawkchurch, near Axminster, could expand from six to 11 pitches.

Planning officers had recommended approving the scheme.

People living in the village had been campaigning against the plans, saying increasing it could alter the character of the village.