A new travellers site on the outskirts of Dorridge, Solihull, has been granted planning permission by the local council. The proposal, submitted by Joseph Doherty last September, seeks to convert a 3,000-square-metre area on Box Trees Road into a residential site for travellers.
Located approximately 650 metres from Dorridge village, the Yew Tree Cottage site currently includes a permitted stable, horse ménage, and a bat roost/store room. The application outlines plans for five residential pitches equipped with mobile homes, touring caravan spaces, and a shared utility/dayroom converted from part of the existing stables.
The dayroom will provide essential facilities for cooking, washing, and hygiene, helping to reduce risks associated with caravan living. The design ensures the new structures harmonise with the surrounding buildings, maintaining the area’s aesthetic.
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The applicant highlighted the site’s efficient use and its role in addressing the national shortage of authorised traveller pitches. The local council recognises a need for 38 additional pitches between 2020 and 2036, and this development contributes toward meeting that demand.
Though the site is classified as grey belt, it is considered suitable for development under council policies. Public and council consultees raised no objections during consultations held earlier this year.
On approval, council planning officer Mark Andrews imposed conditions limiting the site to no more than ten caravans, with a maximum of five being residential static homes or mobile homes.
For those interested, the application details are available on Solihull Council’s planning portal under reference PL/2025/01806/PPFL.