PR
3500
A
recent study by Salford University – commissioned by North and North East Lincolnshire
Councils – that assessed gypsies and travellers accommodation needs – found
that 46 residential pitches and around five temporary transit pitches are needed
in North Lincolnshire by 2016.
By
law, councils have a duty to assess accommodation needs of gypsies and travellers.
It is part of the government’s plans to foster, build and maintain sustainable
and inclusive communities.
The
Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (GTAA) explores the accommodation
options available to these communities, and looks at current needs for different
types of accommodation and site provision.
There
are around 80 gypsies and traveller families in North Lincolnshire (source:
caravan count – July 2007).
The
study involved interviewing gypsies and travellers to identify their needs and
looked at accommodation type and location. The interviews also looked at their
demands, preferences and aspirations.
The
council now needs to identify possible sites within North Lincolnshire and produce
a document for public consultation. This will take place around August 2008.
People will have six weeks to give their views on the chosen sites. They will
also have the chance to put forward other sites they think may be suitable.
The
views will be fed into the ‘preferred options stage’ of the Allocations Documents
in the North Lincolnshire Development Framework – due out for consultation in
January/February 2009.
Cllr
Mick Grant, Cabinet Member for Housing and Strategic Planning, said:
"We
have a duty by law to assess gypsies and travellers accommodation needs. The
study we commissioned has identified the need for 46 residential pitches by
2016.
"Tensions
can often occur within local communities when gypsies and travellers are camped
on unauthorised sites. By having designated sites, this will hopefully alleviate
some of these tensions.
"When
we identify the possible sites, we will of course consult with local people
and we will listen to what they have to say. There will be two public consultations
taking place around August this year and early next year. We welcome your
views."
For
further information please contact: Sarah Williamson on 01724 296353 or email
sarah.williamson@northlincs.gov.uk
.