Proposed Changes To Gypsy and Traveller Site Provision

Posted on March 27, 2009

Changes to proposals for Gypsy and Traveller accommodation in the East of England were published for consultation today. The plans are aimed at reducing the number of Gypsy and Traveller sites without proper planning permission by increasing the provision of authorised pitches, including 50 in South Bedfordshire.

Following an examination in public in October, local people are now being invited to take part in an eight week long consultation to have their say on the proposed changes. The responses (due by 5pm on 22 May 2009) will then be carefully considered before the final plans are published later this year.

The provision of authorised sites, with occupiers being liable for council tax and utility bills, will help to reduce enforcement costs to the taxpayer - estimated at around £18 million a year.

Communities Minister Sadiq Khan said:

"It is important that in the same way we provide housing for the settled community, we also provide enough authorised sites for Gypsies and Travellers.

"By ensuring sufficient provision of well-managed, authorised sites, we can help stop the vicious cycle of evictions from unauthorised sites that is costly to the taxpayer and impacts on the quality of life for the travelling community and the wider public.

"Not only this, but Gypsy and Traveller residents of authorised pitches are also responsible for paying rent, council tax and other utility bills in the same way as the settled community."

Source: Government Office for the East of England