Council defends Gypsy sites consultation - Darlington

From the Norhern Echo

A COUNCIL has defended its consultation process over possible new Gypsy and Travellers sites around Darlington amid concerns about whether residents have been properly informed.

Darlington Borough Council said it has carried out an ‘extensive’ consultation with residents about six potential locations for new or extended Traveller sites in the borough, including writing letters to households next to or near possible sites.

But some candidates contesting the Harrowgate Hill by-election said they have spoken to a number of residents in the ward who were in the dark about the plans and many who were unclear about how to make their views known to the council.

The council announced last month the six locations it believes are possible solutions for Gypsy and Traveller sites in the borough over the next 15 years.

The issue has become a key discussion point for candidates who are canvassing in the Harrowgate Hill by-election, which includes a potential new site in Glebe Road, off Salters Lane West.

Liberal Democrat candidate Hilary Allen said: “At a public meeting held at Harrowgate Hill Working Men’s Club it transpired that most residents had been unaware of the proposal, let alone the deadline for their objections.

“Some got to know by chance but the council have still not, to my knowledge, been in touch with the residents.”

Conservative candidate Gill Cartwright said: “Most people didn’t even know what address they have to send their consultation to. There is a lot of concern among residents about these proposals.”

Labour candidate Helen Crumbie said: “Obviously I’m concerned that some people are anxious but they need to express their views to the council. The council also needs to seriously consider the views that are expressed by local people.”

A council spokeswoman said: “We must stress this is just an early stage exploring possibilities for different areas - they are not proposals.

"We have listened to the issues raised and there will be a further consultation in the Autumn on any specific proposals.”

"The programme of consultation has been extensive including letters to households close to or next to potential sites, consultation with parish councils, statutory bodies and Durham police.

“In addition, details highlighting the consultation programme have also appeared twice in the regional media, as well as in libraries and council buildings.”

A final consultation drop-in session will be held today at the Dolphin Centre, between 10am and noon, and from 1pm to 3pm.