Outline plans for the siting of gypsy and traveller pitches in Stoke Poges have been submitted to the council - with the land believed to be ancient woodland with "links to World War Two".

The applicant – Peter Grimble – wants to change the use of land on the north side of Templewood Lane, near Duffield Lane, to allow for eight traveller vehicles to be sited.

Writing in the design and access statement, Mr Grimble said: “I am aware that the Mansion Lane large gypsy traveller site at Iver is now at full capacity and has a waiting list of many families who want to live in the Slough area.

“These eight pitches would alleviate the lack of a permanent site for each of eight of those families and thus improve greatly their welfare and well-being, as well as providing a stable and settled environment for their children.”

He said the site is partly developed which has previously had one caravan sited for some years, adding: “Therefore the proposed minor intensification of use is appropriate in this context.”

No on-site facilities, such as shops or entertainment units, are proposed – Mr Grimble does want permission for an access road, individual car parking and utility services.

The plans have had a number of objections, including from the parish council, which says: “There is no caravan currently on site. This development will lead to a multi occupancy and is not a minor intensification. The applicant has not demonstrated any special circumstances.

“Under the Townscape Policy para 3.3, this lane is classed as a woodland lane, it is a semi-natural landscape that should be protected against intensification and other forms of development.”

And Sarah Marshall, from Farnham Common, wrote: “The area that forms north side, Templewood Lane, is within green belt.

“This is an area of ancient woodland with historic connections to World War Two and we believe that there are insufficient grounds to warrant a special development case in this instance.”

While Kelly Quinlivan, from Farnham Common, said in her objection that the plans would “ruin the village”, adding: “I completely object to this planning as it would be detrimental to the village mainly due to the disruption this could cause, with more traffic, antisocial behaviour and increased traffic being the main causes for concern.

“It would also affect the schools, selling property and ruin our village.”

A decision is expected to be made by July 5.