Fewer Travellers on socially-rented sites

The total number of Gypsy and Traveller caravans in England increased by 400 in a year, government data shows.

Figures published by the communities and local government department today (Thursday) show there were 18,600 caravans in England in July, compared to 18,200 the previous year.
A total of 78 per cent of caravans, 14,600, were on authorised sites. Of these 6,600 were on socially-rented sites operated by councils and housing associations, a drop of 200 on the previous year, while 8,000 were on privately funded sites, an increase of 300.
The number of caravans on unauthorised developments on land owned by Gypsies and Travellers decreased by 200, while the number of unauthorised encampments on land not owned by Gypsies and Travellers increased by 600.
The east of England had the highest number of caravans, 4,700, equivalent to a quarter of the total, while the south east and south west had 21 per cent and 14 per cent respectively. The north east and London had the fewest, 500 and 800 respectively.