Sites given approval to be camps - Leicestershire

From the Leicester Mercury

A commission looking at new Travellers' sites for Leicester has rubber-stamped its recommendations to the mayor.

Leicester City Council's economic development, culture and tourism scrutiny commission have agreed that two short-listed sites – in Greengate Lane, near Birstall, and in nearby Redhill Way, Leicester – are suitable for new Traveller sites.

The commission's report concluded that Beaumont Way, in Beaumont Leys, was not suitable for a "transit" site but Hoods Close, Beaumont Leys, would make a good temporary site for Traveller families instead.

The commission met on Thursday night when all but one member – Conservative councillor Nigel Porter – approved their report.

Councillor Porter said the report was "contradictory" and that the commission's investigation had not been objective.

A total of 350 pieces of land owned by Leicester City Council were originally considered for Travellers' sites. Locations have been ruled out for many reasons, including future plans for the land, where it is, layout and closeness to homes.

Consultation about the sites will carry on until July 13, and city mayor Sir Peter Soulsby will make the final decision.

The commission also recommended no more Travellers' sites should be allowed in the Beaumont Leys and Abbey wards in the future.

Commission chairman Sue Waddington said: "The consultation is by no means over."

www.leicester.gov.uk/ gypsyandtravellersites