Alternative Sites Consultation

The fact that there is an acknowledged shortfall of sites in the area is an important determining factor. Government guidance in Cir 1/2006 states that eveerybody should have the opportunity of living in a decent home and highlights the failure of the planning system in providing enough private gypsy sites. Authorities are required to have regard to the Gypsy and Traveller Assessment and other factors such as the number of unauthorised encampments and availability of authorised sites.

The GTAA highlighted the number of pitches required by 2012 yet the adoption of this document with regard to site provision is April 2013. The number of unauthorised encampments over the last year was 20, involving 153 caravans/families and this does not include any which were on private or WDC land [statistics for Warwickshire County Council Only], therefore the need for a transit site is considered urgent and if WDC are not going to adopt the strategy until 2013 this will effect both the settled and traveller communities.

It is considered that the delay in adopting sites will cause unrest and may involve families challenging through the appeal system for sites.