PLANS to extend a gypsy site in Woodland have been thrown out by district planners.

Mr M Doran was looking to add three more pitches to his camp which currently houses three pitches and six caravans.

But his venture was dashed when Teignbridge Council’s planning committee decided to refuse the plans.

Members were concerned that the proposed area he wanted to build on was directly underneath 400kv power lines – some of the most powerful in the country.

BBC Spotlight presenter and Woodland resident Janine Jansen believed there was no reason for the additional pitches and raised concerns over the frequent blind bends on the road leading up to the site.

Electrical clearance, risks of mechanical failure and the risks of getting cancer were just a few of the issues raised about building under the power lines.

Principal planner Ros Eastman said there were no health reasons that people couldn’t build near the National Grid lines.

Ipplepen councillor Alistair Dewhirst said: ‘The thought that anyone would want to love under power lines amazes me.’

Cllr Dave Rollason highlighted the fact that National Grid said they would not recommend placing equipment underneath their lines.

But Ms Eastman said they didn’t oppose the idea either.

Cllr Jacqui Orme deemed the application was dangerous and was in the complete wrong area.

Cllr Lisa Mayne said: ‘This is such a dangerous site, but it shows how desperate the gypsy and traveller community are, so we have to look at it from their shoes as they have chosen to bring up their children here.’

The proposals were refused because of the proximity to the power lines, poor access and other suitable locations being available.