PROPOSALS to cram an extra 17 travellers' pitches into Welwyn Hatfield have been approved by the East of England Regional Assembly.

If confirmed by a public inquiry, likely in the summer, the target will see the borough providing a total of 68 pitches, the second highest in Hertfordshire.

Although the location of the pitches has not been decided, people in Welham Green are concerned most or all will be located off Bulls Lane, identified as suitable in an official report.

Paul Zukowskyj, a prospective councillor for Welham Green, said: "It is a singularly inappropriate, green field site on a rural road.

"It will join Welham Green to Brookmans Park."

But the borough council is playing down the issue.

Councillor Mandy Perkins, cabinet planning chief, said: "The council is required, as part of the local development framework, to consider long-term accommodation planning throughout the borough.

"This means making provision for all sectors of the community.

"We would like to remind the public that no decision has been taken on the placement of Gypsy and traveller accommodation in Welwyn Hatfield.

"We are aware of residents' concerns regarding the site proposed in the joint report, and will take these concerns into account when assessing the site's suitability in the future.

"Residents will be consulted at an appropriate juncture when suitable sites are identified."