Legal threat to 'industrial' containers on green belt site

The caravan and industrial-type containers are on land between New Mill Bank and Race Lane in Bolsterstone.

A complaint has been made to Sheffield Council about their presence, which would require planning permission, and officials have tried to persuade the landowner to make a planning application, though that has not happened.

Now councillors are being asked to decide on what level of action to authorise next and that could include enforcement action to force the removal of the structures.

Council officials say the site where the structures have been placed is "particularly visible" across the valley where they are sited.

Current planning regulations state new developments will not be

permitted in such circumstances except in "very special circumstances" for purposes other than agriculture.

A council report warns: "There is no evidence that the structures are related to agricultural purposes. The mobile home is not used for residential purposes at this time."

All the structures on site are described as "poor quality" and out of character with the rural location. The steel containers would be more suited to an industrial location, say officials.

Sheffield Council was alerted to the situation following a complaint from the public.

Councillors are being asked to authorise senior officials to take appropriate action to get the items removed, including enforcement action if necessary. If that happens, the council would also have the powers to force those involved to tidy up afterwards if necessary.

The council is aware of the identity of those responsible for the site so officials will be able to pursue the situation if councillors give the authority to proceed.