The Senior Planning Policy Officer presented the the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (GTAA) which had been prepared as part of the evidence base to support the emerging Local Plan.  The GTAA had identified a need for 51 new pitches to provide suitable accommodation for the Gypsy and Traveller community up to 2035 and the District had a potential supply of 76 pitches on existing sites. 

It was noted therefore that this was good news as the need for 51 Gypsy and Traveller pitches could be met on existing sites and it was unlikely that new sites would be needed.

There was some discussion on the lack of and need for transit camps, but noted that current figures did not support the need for one within the District.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved:  That it be recommended to Cabinet that the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (GTAA) attached at Appendix A to the report, be endorsed as a robust evidence base from which the Local Plan strategy would be developed.