Actor Martin Clunes is intensifying his opposition to a planning application that seeks to establish a permanent travellers' site adjacent to his Dorset estate.
The proposal has faced multiple delays with the latest deferral occurring due to concerns over surface water flooding.
Clunes, supported by his legal team, argues that the applicants do not meet the legal definition of "travellers," as outlined in planning policy and so should not qualify for planning permission.
Dispute over traveller status and planning definitions
The applicants, Langton and McGill, have resided in a 45ft by 16ft mobile home on their property at Meerhay for over two decades.
Clunes challenges the legitimacy of Langton and McGill's claim to Traveller status, arguing that their activities, such as attending festivals to sell handmade items, do not meet the legal criteria for nomadic life.
In a submission to Dorset Council, Clunes stated: "It cannot be concluded that the applicants are persons of nomadic habit of life due to them visiting music and other festivals each year to sell items and help set them up."
He further contends that labelling their static caravan as a mobile home is "cynical and dishonest," emphasising that the structure lacks mobility and was not constructed with any intention of being mobile.
Council's position and community response
Despite Clunes' objections, Dorset Council's planning officers have recommended approval of the application, recognising Langton and McGill as part of the New Age Traveller community.
An officer's report noted: "It is very clear they follow and are a part of the New Age Traveller community and have been for many years."
The couple has lived on the site without running water or electricity since 2002 and previously held temporary licenses to remain.
The site had been used for unauthorised occupation for some time, but the travellers were allowed to stay temporarily while the planning application was considered.
Environmental concerns and legal proceedings
The planning application has faced delays due to environmental assessments, particularly concerning surface water flooding risks.
The flooding risks raised in the Martin Clunes planning case relate primarily to surface water flooding at the proposed traveller site near his Dorset home.
Dorset Council deferred its decision to further investigate these concerns. Clunes, represented by legal counsel, continues to oppose the application, arguing that approving the site would set a "harmful precedent" and that the location is unsuitable for a Traveller site given its designation as an Area Of Natural Beauty.
The outcome of this dispute remains pending as the council reviews the environmental findings and legal arguments presented by both parties.
