Darlington council expected to vote on £50k Traveller study

From the Northern Echo

COUNCILLORS will be asked to fund a feasibility study into extending Gypsy and Traveller sites in a North-East town.

The move to enlarge existing sites in Honeypot Lane and Neasham Road, Darlington, follows a public outcry against initial plans, which proposed that up to six new sites could be created around the town.

More than 500 people responded to the official consultation, while hundreds signed petitions against proposed individual sites.

Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet will be asked to approve spending £50,000 on a feasibility study examining the potential to increase Gypsy and Traveller pitch provision at the town’s existing sites when it meets next Tuesday.

The council has received £1.5m from the Homes and Community Agency to create 20 new Gypsy and Traveller pitches in Darlington between 2013 and 2015, as part of a Government initiative.

A report prepared for councillors said initial studies and discussions with the Gypsy and Traveller community indicate the two sites at Honeypot Lane and Neasham Road could accommodate the extra 20 pitches.

An earlier study said Darlington would require about 35 new pitches by 2026, and the new feasibility study will look at how many of those 35 could be accommodated across the two sites.

If the £50,000 is approved, the feasibility study will look at the potential for site expansion, communal facilities required, gas supplies and a play area. Council officers will also ask for feedback and ideas from people living close to the sites and from members of the Gypsy and Traveller community.

Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, who is leading the consultation process, said: “Nothing is set in stone nor will it be, until further public consultation and independent inspection is completed.

“However, I recognise that this has been an emotive issue for many people and I am keen that we bring it to a conclusion as soon as possible.

“I have worked with officers to find a way to speed up the timetable and conclude this without impacting on an individual’s rights to consider proposals and have their say.”

The outcome of the feasibility study would be presented to the council’s cabinet in the future. Any expansion to the sites will be subject to the planning approval process.