Study identifies potential new sites for gypsies and travellers

Potential areas of search for new sites for gypsies and travellers in northern and eastern Hertfordshire have been identified in an independent report published today, 8 October.

The areas have been identified in a report commissioned jointly by Herts County Council and the five district and borough councils in the area - East Herts, Broxbourne, Welwyn Hatfield, North Hertfordshire and Stevenage.

Local authorities are required by law to assess the accommodation needs of the gypsy and travelling communities in their areas, and to provide adequate accommodation in suitable places.

Independent research published by ORS (Opinion Research Services) last year concluded that there were not enough legal and permanent sites in this area and predicted that a total of 45 more pitches will be needed over the next five years.

So the six local authorities commissioned a report from independent consultants Scott Wilson to identify potential areas of search for sites in northern and eastern areas of the county that could meet the need for pitches outlined in the ORS report.

For more information, read the full press release.

If you would like to read the Scott Wilson report and accompanying information including frequently asked questions, please click this link