A parish council has raised concerns that more is not being done to support a traveller family in St Martins.

The Stokes family were moved to the former Ifton Heath Primary School site in 2015 as their previous home on Oswestry’s Smithfield Market had been earmarked for a leisure development.

Since then Shropshire Council has submitted two 12-month extensions to their stay with a third due to go before the North Shropshire Planning Committee tomorrow [DEL JULY 24].

But members of St Martins Parish Council say they feel more needs to be done.

Edward Davies, clerk to the council, said: “Although St Martins Parish council supported this application they had concerns that Shropshire Council who have a legal position to house this family seem to be doing little to look for an alternative site for this family.”

The proposal is recommended for approval ahead of Tuesday’s meeting.

Case officer Mark Perry said: “Members may have concerns that the previously granted consents were meant to allow the council time to pursue an alternative site for permanent occupation and that the applicant is now seeking a further 12 months.

“Alternatives are being considered by the council with a view to finding the Stokes family a permanent site, however further time is required.

“Members should be reassured that alternatives are still being sought and there is no intention for there to become permanent occupancy of the Ifton Heath school site.

“The site is currently being promoted as part of the Local Plan review, the outcome of this will then guide the council with regards to its future intentions and development opportunities for the site.”

Earlier this year, Councillor Steve Davenport, who represents St Martins at Shropshire Council, said the 12-month extension is a maximum, not a minimum.

He added: “I haven’t got a problem with them staying there, but for their sake they need something permanent.”