Comment

Gypsy and Traveller Site Options

Representation ID: 55542

Received: 22/07/2013

Respondent: Andrew Bell

Representation Summary:

Should be joint approach with Stratford upon Avon DC.

Full text:

I am not a resident of Warwick District, however two of the sites (GT03 and GT04) under consideration that I wish to comment on are very familiar to me and are situated on the boundary with Stratford Upon Avon District Council.

In view of the nature of sites for gypsys and travellers and the area of interest under consideration I contend that a joint approach should be undertaken by the two council's to achieve satisfactory allocations.

Looking at site GT04 I contend that the location fails the test of being near to an existing settlement with access to local services, doctor, shops schools etc. There is no indication at this stage of assessment of capacity or consideration of the services and facilities offered.

My primary concern relates to traffic and safety, particularly on the Fosse Way B4455. The Highway Authority have signs erected warning that it is a high accident risk route. Any new vehicular access to the highway between Middle Road and Harbury Lane would be detrimental to road safety unless extensive highway works were undertaken to safely accommodate turning vehicles. Furthermore there are no footways alongside the B4455, Harbury Lane or Middle Road; if the proposed site is to accommodate families then it would be essential for suitable footways to be provided to enable young persons in particular to access the nearest 'facilities' in safety.

I note that Your own Consultants Final Interim Sustainability Appraisal Report on the gypsy and traveller sites draws attention to the fact that at this stage very little is known about traffic and transport and how allocations will affect these. It is a major and vital aspect requiring careful consideration.