Gypsy And Traveller Sitesthirteenth Report Of Session

The Committee's report examines the provision and management of Gypsy and Traveller sites within England, focusing on the following aspects: current provision and location of sites; demand for, and use of sites; existing funding arrangements; the Gypsy Site Refurbishment Grant scheme; site characteristics and facilities; management of unauthorised camping; and ODPM statistical information on caravans, sites and families. The Committee's report notes the contradictory views held about Gypsies and Travellers, and the public opposition to their encampment in local areas for fear, whether real or not, of crime and anti-social behaviour. In light of this, the report seeks to assess the extent of problems faced both by Gypsies and Travellers and the settled community, and suggests ways to reduce the conflict, misery and nuisance being caused. Recommendations made include, due to the lack of sites available, that the Government should re-introduce a statutory requirement for local authorities to provide suitable accommodation, based on an assessment of need at regional level, and funded through a capital grant.