Public consultation over planned Gypsy and Traveller site in Plymouth

From the Plymouth Herald

A PUBLIC consultation has been launched over a proposed Gypsy and Traveller site.

Fifteen transit pitches could be built on land owned by the council at Broadley Park, near Roborough, under the controversial plans.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, cabinet member for co-operatives and community development, said: "I know that this is a sensitive issue but we do need a proactive approach to dealing with unauthorised encampments. These are affecting more and more neighbourhoods and we can't ignore the problems they cause. Providing a transit site would mean we expect to see a reduction in the number of unauthorised encampments and subsequently we hope to ease community tension."

Residents and businesses are being asked for their views on the site designs and management arrangements.

Unauthorised encampments in Plymouth cost the council up to £300,000 a year in clean-up costs. Last year there were 40.

The six-week consultation will include two public events at Woolwell Community Centre, on September 25 and October 2, from 2pm to 6.30pm. There will also be an exhibition at the George Park and Ride between September 24 and October 12. Further events will be held for businesses and Gypsy and Traveller communities.