Plans for a permanent traveller site in Horsdean have been given the go-ahead.

South Downs National Park Authority’s planning committee this morning approved an application by Brighton & Hove City Council for a permanent travellers site at Horsdean, north of Brighton.

Welcoming the news Cllr Pete West chair of the Brighton & Hove City Council’s environment committee said: “We are pleased that the National Park Planning Authority has recognised the need for a permanent traveller site in the city and has approved the planning application for the site at Horsdean.

“Once built, the new site will give greater stability for travelling families and strengthen links with the local community that already exist with the transit site.

“The proposals will also see the Traveller Liaison Team operating from a building on site, to ensure closer and better working with the community and reduce site management costs.

“Adding 12 new permanent pitches should also help to free up transit pitches and manage unauthorized encampments and their impact on parks and communities.”