WEST Devon needs to find six pitches for gypsies and travellers by 2011, according to research just released by the University of Plymouth. The borough has no council owned pitches or authorised privately owned sites. It means there is a current shortfall of four, with a legal requirement to establish six sites in the next four years. The borough this week announced it would be joining forces with other local authorities in light of the shortfall which exists throughout the county. Providing authorised pitches is now a legal requirement for local authorities— apart from county councils — under national planning law. Although it is widely accepted that well managed pitches can be of real benefit to the local and travelling community, local authorities throughout Devon say they are determined to ensure there is extensive local consultation before committing to any sites. Cllr Margaret Garton, chairman of West Devon Borough Council's future planning and housing committee, said: 'Enabling authorised sites is a legal requirement of local authorities, not an option. However, we intend to undertake this duty sensitively, ensuring there is plenty of opportunity for consultation before decisions are made. 'We hope to work with our neighbouring authorities to address the level of need for authorised sites in this area. ' It is important to remember that gypsies and travellers have the right to be able to access the same services and facilities as the settled community and many are protected under the Race Relations Act. 'This need in particular will be taken into account in any planning application brought forward for an authorised site in West Devon.' The recent research and subsequent report carried out by the University of Plymouth, into the housing needs of gypsies and travellers in Devon indicates that 226 permanent extra pitches will be needed across the county by 2011 with a further 53 between 2011 and 2016. The report was commissioned by Plymouth City Council on behalf of Devon's local authorities and was researched and written by Dr Rebekah Southern and Dr Zoë James of the University of Plymouth. Findings study will be presented to local authorities,gypsies and travellers in the New Year. The shortfall in local authority owned and authorised sites for gypsies and travellers is described in the report as a 'County-wide problem that requires a co-ordinated county-wide response. 'The absence of a shortfall in a particular district does not mean that provision is not required in that area. Devon authorities should plan and implement a shared strategy to meet the county-wide need.' Authorised and managed pitches for gypsies and travellers can be a real benefit to the transient community and local residents alike as they provide specific facilities suited to the needs of gypsies and travellers. They can also help minimise any disruption to the settled community and make it easier for the council to take action against any unauthorised encampments. As an incentive for local authorities to provide sites, the Government will reimburse the total cost of setting up the facility, if councils can identify a suitable authorised site within three years.
