PLANS for five extra gypsy pitches at a well-used site are due to go before councillors.

Tony Marshall, a Nazeing parish councillor, is seeking to expand his family's site at Greenleaves Mobile Home Park, in Hoe Lane, Nazeing.

His application had previously been refused by Epping Forest District Council, but it is now being recommended for approval.

The officer's report states: “While the previous reasons for refusal have not been sufficiently overcome, the proven need for additional Gypsy and Traveller pitches within the District outweigh the harm resulting from the development.”

Three objections have been received to the application including one from Mr Marshall's neighbours and fellow parish councillors Daphne and Ed Borton.

The decision will be made at Epping Forest District Council's Development Control Committee next Tuesday, February 2.