OVERWHELMING community interest in the proposed travellers’ site in Sunhill has seen Cotswold District Council (CDC) extend the consultation by one week until tomorrow (April 20).

The Sunhill And Meysey Hampton (SAM) Community Group was set up to oppose the potential plans for 15 traveller sites at a mushroom compost facility next to the Welsh Way, and held a public meeting at Meysey Hampton Village Hall on April 5.

More than 200 attending members of the public were encouraged to submit their views to CDC.

A spokesman for the group said: “We have had huge support from the community, with a united belief that this site is totally unsuitable for this proposal.

“Hundreds of people from Bibury to Down Ampney have had their say, with over 350 objections already posted.

“The community has also put their money where their mouth is and contributed over £4,500 to fund the community’s objection.”

A CDC spokesman said: “We can confirm that we have agreed to extend the deadline to April 20, allowing the SAM Community Group and any other local residents more time to comment.

“Additionally, we have explained to the SAM group that comments can be made up until the application is determined, although it would be preferable to receive their representations by April 20.”

The controversial plan to transform the compost facility into 15 traveller pitches, each with space for an amenity building, touring caravan and mobile home, was submitted to CDC by site owners Cotswold Compost Company Ltd, with the help of agent Bruton Knowles.

Residents can make comments on the application by visiting the CDC planning portal and using reference code 16/00906/FUL.