PLANS for a permanent travellers' site for use around the time of the Great Dorset Steam Fair have taken a step closer to becoming reality.

Cabinet bosses at Dorset County Council gave the green light to proposals for a long-term arrangement with the owner of a field between Tarrant Hinton and Tarrant Launceston.

The site, off the C25 road, south of Hyde Hill, was used to accommodate travellers visiting the fair last year.

Cllr Hilary Cox, the cabinet member for the environment, backed the idea: "This is a site that is available, can be developed, and is solely for use of travellers who cause such a problem when they visit the Steam Fair," said Cllr Cox.

But Cllr Ron Stanley, the chairman of Tarrant Monkton Parish Council, told the Echo he was unhappy: "We put across our point of view. We are obviously disappointed when it is ignored."

Cllr Cox said villagers' views would be heard when the council seeks planning permission.

Cllr Angus Campbell, Dorset County Council's leader, said work remained to win the support of local people.

"There is a lot to be done in the battle for hearts and minds," said Cllr Campbell.

An application for long term use of the site is expected to go before the planning committee in April.