VILLAGERS have stepped up their campaign to fight plans for a gipsy camp.

The illegal site was set up on land off Gwern Lane, Hope, at the end of June but since then the camp has been operating without planning permission.

It is understood the travellers have bought the land but they do not have permission to be on the site with caravans.

Now an application has been submitted to Flintshire Council and concerned residents have delivered nearly a thousand letters notifying villagers.

A Gwern Lane resident said the letters were circulated after a four-day gap between the application being submitted and official notice coming from the council.

She said: “We do not want to make trouble, we are trying to be responsible residents. We were made aware of the application last Wednesday but no notice went up until Saturday. We were aware there were only 21 days to respond.

“Other residents had no idea the application had gone in. We just wanted to give out information that was not available. The letter is urging people to make up their own minds.”

Opposition to the site centres around fears over extra traffic and the fact the land is well used by joggers, walkers and cyclists.

A huge turnout is expected for a community council meeting on September 1 when community leaders and residents will discuss the issue.

Hope community councillor Cliff Shone said it was unfair to seek permission to live on the site after it had become active.

He said: “We do not think it is suitable the village is far to small. I do not think it is in line with planning policy. I support the residents.”

A meeting between residents and Alyn and Deeside MP Mark Tami has already taken place.

The application is for a two static caravans, two touring caravans, a day room to provide bathroom, cooking and laundry space and associated drainage.