Travellers consulted

GYPSIES, travellers and other members of the public are being asked for their views as the Government Office for the East of England (GO-East) launches a 12-week consultation on proposals to tackle the shortage of caravan pitches. This is part of the Gov

GYPSIES, travellers and other members of the public are being asked for their views as the Government Office for the East of England (GO-East) launches a 12-week consultation on proposals to tackle the shortage of caravan pitches.

This is part of the Government's commitment to ensuring an affordable place to live for all.

GO-East says that of 4,229 gypsy and traveller caravans in the region, 1,140 are on unauthorised sites, highlighting the major shortage of proper facilities.

This month (February), the East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) submitted recommendations for increased site provision with at least 15 additional pitches allocated for each of the 48 local planning authorities in the region by 2011.

In a consultation that started on Monday (February 25), everyone has the opportunity to comment on the plans.

EERA Chairman Cllr John Reynolds said: "Gypsies and travellers want somewhere legal to live, and local communities want to avoid the problems of illegal sites."

INFORMATION: Consultation documents and further information are available on GO-East's website at: www.goeast.gov.uk