Poole councillors criticise travellers' site plans

Three potential travellers' sites in Dorset have been criticised by councillors.

A consultants' report for Poole council proposed sites at Canford Heath, Branksome Triangle and Turlin Moor.

But a committee of councillors rejected the sites and wants a public consultation expanded to also include 20 sites which the report dismissed.

This proposal will now go to cabinet. All nine councils in Dorset have to find sites over the next 15 years.

In the report, Poole has been earmarked for three sites but members said they were unacceptable.

'Land needed'

Liberal Democrat councillor Brian Clements said: "The members were not at all happy with any of the sites.

"People should be free to look at all the sites the council has identified or any which they think are acceptable, rather than be limited to these three."

The councillor said both the Canford Heath and Turlin Moor sites were on land adjacent schools, which may be needed for future development for educational needs.

He also said the part of the Branksome Triangle site is used as a park and ride for workers at a financial firm which has just announced expansion plans and new jobs.

Cabinet will meet to discuss the issue next Tuesday.