New Durham sites planned for Travellers

TRAVELLERS could be given approved sites to set up camps in a bid to keep them clear of private and public plots. A search is on to find suitable areas where Gypsies would be allowed to stay. Durham County Council hopes this would help dissuade them from using unofficial sites, which could save the taxpayer money and reduce the level of potential trouble caused to permanent residents. It would also put it in a stronger position if enforcement action is needed. A number of such sites were set up in Teesdale during Appleby Fair. The council says they won the backing of residents and gave police and itself greater power to control encampments and minimise the effect they have on the settled community.