COUNCILLORS claim they were forced into approving a new gypsy site because of restrictive planning regulations.

Members of Stockton Borough Council's planning committee reluctantly voted six to five in favour of permanently allowing land at High Tree Paddock, High Lane, Maltby, near Ingleby Barwick, to be used as a gypsy site with one residential caravan.

However, councillors were far from happy when they were told they have a duty to find provision for 17 travelling families in the borough by 2012 and that no potential sites have been identified.

The application in Maltby was recommended by planning officers for approval.

Head of planning at Stockton Borough Council, Carol Straughan, said at present there are no policies in place to look at gypsy provision so every planning application received should be considered.

"We have just completed a Tees Valley Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Assessment and we have found there is a need for 17 spaces in the borough," she said.

"It is proving very difficult to find a site. We dont have anywhere lined up. For a gypsy site this is a suitable location."

Members were told only Maltby Parish Council objected to the plans on the grounds it encroaches onto agricultural land and nature in which the site has developed.

The High Tree Paddock site had previously held temporary permission to be used as a gypsy site and no complaints have ever been received from neighbouring properties.

A potential gypsy site in Durham Lane, Eaglescliffe, cost Stockton Borough Council money after an inspector went against councillors decision to refuse the application.

Coun Jim Beall said: "I think we are being held over a barrel on this one. I dont think we have any grounds not to approve this application.

"On the grounds it will save the council money I reluctantly support this application."

Coun Steve Walmsley said: "I have nothing against travellers, but I believe we should all be treated the same.

"Allowing this application opens up the opportunity for a spate of these. We could effectively have a traveller village."

Coun Phillip Broughton added: "I am dismayed. We are getting bullied into this.

"The whole point of democracy is that it is meant to be our decision."

But chairman Coun Roy Rix reminded councillors they could vote against the scheme if they had a valid reason.

He said: "If you dont approve this application, it will be passed by the inspector and will cost the council money.

"The parish council is not here and there has been no representations from residents.

"It (the caravan) has been there for six years and there has never been a problem. I really find it difficult to oppose it."