PLANS for a controversial traveller site have been scaled down.

Two Irish traveller families applied to site four caravans on land next to the pumping station in Clacton Road, Elmstead Market. The plans were then withdrawn and a fresh application put in, for three caravans, hard-standing, a utility block, fencing and drainage.

Landowners Larry and Michael Doran currently have a single mobile home, two caravans and a portable toilet on the site.

Tendring Council has received one letter of support, plus 43 letters of objection and petitions signed by a total of 609 people, also objecting to the plans. Elmstead Market Parish Council also objects.

The Government has told Tendring it must approve provide 15 traveller pitches by 2011. A decision is expected at the next planning committee meeting, on September 15.