Plans to create a new Traveller site in Lewisham have divided opinion, as seen in comments on a News Shopper Facebook post.

Lewisham Council has proposed developing a disused piece of land in Pool Court into a site for Travellers, previously covered here.

If given the go-ahead, this would be the first site for Travellers in the borough since the old location in Thurston Road closed in 2009.

The plans involve setting up three initial pitches on the site, each featuring a static caravan, a utility block, a parking space, and room for a mobile caravan.

It is expected that four further pitches would then be created on neighbouring land that is owned by National Rail – but this would require another planning application.

The site would be located between homes in Pool Court and the Thameslink railway line.

The plans have sparked a mixed reaction from residents, with some voicing concerns over the proximity of the site to vulnerable individuals.

Richard Thorogood said: "Pool close is a development for people with learning difficulties and other special needs.

"So why would they even contemplate allowing these 'travellers' to reside anywhere near them?"

Jacqui Seal voiced frustration over perceived double standards: “I know a lot of properties that the council doesn’t allow to have a caravan on their drive or in their garden

"but this is deemed acceptable 😂 along with fly tipping and having fires every day. So much for smoke-free zones—yet again one rule for people who abuse the system."

Hendrik Kruger said: "I pass a traveller site every day in Dartford, and the amount of stuff they burn daily is ridiculous, and the rubbish they leave at the entrance is unbelievable.

"And worst of all, it is right across from a council site yet they don't even care about the mess nor the pollution from the travellers while we as motorists keep being penalised with ULEZ and LTN."

However, there are those who have spoken up in defence of the proposals, pointing out the need to accommodate the Traveller community and their chosen way of life.

Natalie Corbett said: "That's good news.

"They have a long tradition of living that way and a rich culture.

"The way they have chosen to live should be accommodated."

Some residents also highlighted the contributions of Travellers to the community.

Tracy Mascarenhas said: "Travellers pay council tax for their plots the same as a council tenant would."

Planning documents suggest that members of the Traveller community are supportive of the proposals, having waited for local family pitches for a long time.

Full details of the application can be found on Lewisham Council’s planning portal under reference DC/24/136404.