Gypsy and Traveller Site Allocations Development Plan Document (DPD)

Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Site Allocations Development Plan Document (DPD)

The Government is committed to ensuring fair and equal treatment for Travellers, in a way that facilitates their traditional and nomadic way of life while respecting the interests of the settled community. In August 2015, the Government produced new guidance; Planning Policy for Traveller Sites (opens in a new window).

There is a shortage of authorised sites for Gypsies and Travellers at a national, regional and local level and as a consequence many Gypsies and Travellers have no option but to live on unauthorised and/or unsuitable sites. If suitable sites can be identified through the planning process it will prevent the need for illegal encampments, which often cause conflict with the settled community.

The Council commenced the process of producing a separate ‘Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Site Allocations Development Plan Document’ (G&T DPD) in 2020 following adoption of its Local Plan.

The Council has decided not to continue with a separate G&T DPD and this issue will be addressed as part of the emerging Local Plan. This will be based on updated evidence of need and an assessment of suitable site options. Opportunities to comment on this issue will be available, alongside other issues, when consultation is undertaken on the Local Plan.

The Government is committed to ensuring fair and equal treatment for Travellers, in a way that facilitates their traditional and nomadic way of life while respecting the interests of the settled community. In August 2015, the Government produced new guidance; Planning Policy for Traveller Sites (opens in a new window).

There is a shortage of authorised sites for Gypsies and Travellers at a national, regional and local level and as a consequence many Gypsies and Travellers have no option but to live on unauthorised and/or unsuitable sites. If suitable sites can be identified through the planning process it will prevent the need for illegal encampments, which often cause conflict with the settled community.