Tewkesbury Council wins planning row over caravan site

Tewkesbury Borough Council won a High Court case against landowner Billy-Joe Roper, who was found guilty of nine counts of contempt of court for breaching a planning injunction.

The case centred on unauthorised development at Warren Fruit Farm, near Winchcombe, where caravans were brought onto the site without planning permission in May 2023.

Cllr Sarah Hands, deputy leader of Tewkesbury Borough Council and lead member for planning, said: "The council takes breaches of planning control extremely seriously.

"Planning High Court Injunctions exist to protect the community and the local environment, and it is essential that they are respected.

"We are grateful to residents for their continued cooperation and reporting of concerns, and we are pleased that the court has recognised the seriousness of this case."

In August 2023, the council obtained a High Court injunction to prohibit the occupation of the land, stationing of caravans, laying of hardstanding, and construction of any buildings without planning consent.

Despite the order, further breaches took place—including laying hard surfaces, extending buildings, converting a structure for residential use, and placing additional caravans on the land.

Following a trial in July 2025, Mr Roper was found guilty on nine counts in September 2025, and on January 2, 2026, he was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years.

He was also ordered to remove or undo all works carried out in breach of the injunction and pay the council’s legal costs of £75,000.