Hampshire County Council

Executive Member, Policy & Resources Item 17

19 February 2004

The Management of Unauthorised Gypsy and Traveller Encampments in

Hampshire

Report by the Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services

(Summary of CONFIDENTIAL decision)

1

Summary

1.1

The following decisions are sought:

(i) The work of the Joint Authorities Gypsy and Traveller Panel to date be endorsed and authority be given for officers to bring forward proposals to set-up short stay Gypsy sites in Hampshire in co-operation with other local authorities.

(ii) Such proposals, included location and management arrangements, to be reported back to future meetings for approval in advance of any applications for planning consent.

(iii) Authorise representations to be made to forthcoming Local Plan reviews and formulation of Local Development Frameworks to enable the inclusion of policy to enable the identification of suitable sites and provision of short stay stopping places.

(iv) Nominate additional County Council representation on the Joint Authorities Gypsy and Traveller Panel.

2

Reason(s)

2.1

This decision is required in order to improve the management of unauthorised encampments in the County and in particular to respond to emerging legislation which will require the provision of short stay sites to which Gypsies and Travellers may be moved from unauthorised encampments.

2.2

This decision supports the following Aims of the Corporate Strategy:

Aim 1 - Maximising life opportunities:

by improving access to accommodation for the travelling community and reducing unauthorised encampments within the settled community.

Aim 2 - Stewardship of the environment:

by reducing the environmental impact of unauthorised encampments.

Aim 4 - Building strong and safe communities:

by building strong partnerships with District and Parish Councils and improving communication both internally and externally.

Aim 5 - Improving services :

by implementing best practice in the management of unauthorised camping.

3

Other options considered and rejected

3.1

Not applicable.

4

Conflicts of interest declared by the decision-maker or a member or officer consulted

4.1

None

5

Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

5.1

None

6

Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1

Not applicable

Approved by:

..........................

Date of decision:

.........................

Councillor T K Thornber