More travellers could be allowed to set up camp in Flackwell Heath despite concerns over parking, fire safety and the “intrusive” impact more caravans may have on the greenbelt.

Patrick Murphy hopes to provide extra accommodation for his sister in law Margaret Hanrahan and four of her children so they can live at the caravan park on Heath End Road.

This would require Wycombe District Council to increase the number of caravans allowed in the park from four to six - one static and one touring caravan – which was discussed at a meeting of the planning committee on August 24.

However councillors questioned the application’s feasibility due to a lack of space and deferred the proposal until it can be confirmed the plan can be delivered successfully.

Chloe Andrews-Jones from Flackwell Heath Residents’ Association objected to the proposal saying: “I want to tell you how residents feel about using a site that is already out of character, where overcrowding will make the site which is adjacent to the well-used Chiltern Way more obvious, and where expansion will harm the openness of the greenbelt.

“The development on the old nursery site has caused residents to experience stress and anxiety for a number of years.”

Concerns over fire safety were also aired as the plans – which were criticised for being ‘inaccurate’ - suggest cars would be parked in close proximity to the caravans and obstruct the fire exits.

Chepping Wycombe Parish Councillor Carolyn Leonard said: “The drawing is not an accurate representation of the site. We have grave concerns regarding the safety of the site.

“The governments design of gypsy and travellers sites states it is essential that caravans must be separated by six meters.

“It also states an incombustible items should not be in the position to impede escape.

“Vehicle parking between the two static caravans is unacceptable being both combustible and impeding escape from the caravan.”

However planning officers believe there is “ample” space on the site, and confirmed it is covered by alternative health and safety laws.

They said the council needs to "be very careful" that travellers are not treated differently, as many people have gas bottles in their own gardens for barbeques.  

Officers also clarified that there is no requirement for cars to be parked in allocated spaces such as in a public car park.

It was revealed the application cannot be considered as "inappropriate" development of the greenbelt, as it is not classed as development.

Councillors also requested that – should it be approved – a new condition is added to name the occupants to prevent new residents unlawfully residing at the site.