A Romany gipsy's plans to create new accommodation for his family are being tipped for approval today , despite objections from hundreds of villagers.John Leveridge's application to turn agricultural land at Carleton Rode into a private gipsy site was deferred by district councillors earlier this year to overcome sewage treatment, access and ecology issues.

A Romany gipsy's plans to create new accommodation for his family are being tipped for approval today , despite objections from hundreds of villagers.

John Leveridge's application to turn agricultural land at Carleton Rode into a private gipsy site was deferred by district councillors earlier this year to overcome sewage treatment, access and ecology issues.

Members of South Norfolk Council are being recommended to approve the proposals today, which could see the creation of traveller pitches for six mobile homes and two touring caravans off the B1113, The Turnpike.

The recommendation by the local authority's planning department comes despite more than 175 letters of opposition from local residents and neighbouring villagers, Carleton Rode Parish Council, and the Campaign to Protect Rural England.

Objectors have raised concerns about highway safety, visual impact, drainage issues, and the additional pressure on local services and schools.

However, Norfolk County Council highways department and the Environment Agency have not raised objections and councillors are being asked to approve the plans - subject to a list of 17 conditions.

In a report to members, case officer Chris Trett said there was an 'inadequate' supply of pitches for gipsies and travellers in the district and the visual impact of the development on the landscape would be 'acceptable' when softened by new planting. He added that the nearest residential property was at least 150metres away and the proposed gipsy site would not harm the amenities of local residents.

Mr Leveridge, who restores original horse drawn gipsy caravans, has lived in Great Melton for the last 11 years.