Villagers fear a repeat of problems at Cottenham

East Cambs District Council was recommended to approve the application for two caravans at Little Downham at a meeting on Wednesday.

The council received a 1,500-strong petition and more than 150 letters opposing the application.

Planners say need for the accommodation has been proven and the impact on the countryside would be minimal.

At the meeting eight councillors voted for, seven against and one abstained. After the vote papers were thrown around the council chamber in protest at the decision.

A report says local people claim the proposal would result in a similar situation to that at Cottenham in South Cambridgeshire where villagers are fighting to curb a growing site.

There are also concerns the development would ruin the character of the Fen landscape.

However planning officers say, on balance, because of a lack of available sites and the circumstances of the applicant, they recommend approval.