Issue - meetings

Report of the Strategic Director of Place

Presented by the Regeneration and Planning Portfolio Holder

The Regeneration and Planning Portfolio Holder presented the report to Members.

He reported that the adopted Local Plan Policy H7 set out the evidenced need for gypsy and traveller pitches, as well as travelling showpeoples’ plots, during the plan period.  That evidence dated back to a study in 2007 and as it was now considered out of date a new study had been commissioned.  The new study had not been finalised at the time of the conclusion of the Local Plan examination in public hearings.

He informed Members that the up to date study had a significantly lower requirement for gypsies and traveller pitches than it was in the evidence that supported the local plan.  That was predominantly due to the changed definition of travellers which was introduced in 2015.  The change was still being challenged legally and until it was concluded, future steps were unclear.

It was moved by Councillor T J Pendleton, seconded by R D Bayliss and

RESOLVED THAT:

a)     The requirement within the supporting text to Policy H7 - provision for gypsies and travellers and travelling showpeople – of the adopted Local Plan be noted, that in order to meet identified need, the authority is committed to producing a Gypsy and Traveller Site Allocations Development Plan.

b)     The Leicester and Leicestershire Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment be noted.

c)     It be confirmed that reasonable steps should be taken to ensure suitable and adequate provision is made to meet needs.

Reason for decision: To conform with Policy H7 and supporting text of the adopted Local Plan.