Ringland group to share concerns over Gypsy sites - Newport

From the South Wales Argus

A GROUP worried over two proposed Gypsy sites in Newport are to take their concerns to a public meeting next week.

The Ringland Matters group has been formed to gather objections to two proposed Gypsy sites recommended by a group of Newport city councillors.

The policy review group recommended last year that the Road Safety Centre and nearby land on Hartridge Farm Road is Newport’s preferred residential Gypsy and Traveller site.

The former Ringland allotments site was suggested as a second preferred choice.

However there are worries over transport infrastructure and the fact that the site is still in use.

Frank Weston, 63, of Hartridge, said the road access is inadequate for the Road Safety Centre to be used as a residential site.

Mr Weston also claimed that reasons for rejection for sites in the original shortlist, such as Yew Tree Cottage in Bettws, could be applied to the Hartridge and Ringland sites.

He added: “I cannot see a site in the road safety centre as appropriate when its right next door to a RSPCA animal shelter.”

Ringland Labour councillor Emma Corten said the proposals are “of great concern” to many residents in the Ringland ward.

“Many residents have approached me to ask how they can have their voices heard regarding the proposals,” she said.

“Tuesday’s meeting will advise people how they can register their opinion constructively and how to make their opinions count.”

Gypsy sites must be included in the local development plan (LDP) which is likely to go out to consultation later this year. A final decision on whether to amend or replace the five sites identified in the LDP will be made by councillors in March.

The meeting takes place on Tuesday at Ringland Community Centre at 7pm.

A Newport council spokeswoman said the same assessment criteria was used for every site.

She said all 11 short-listed sites that went out to public consultation are currently being appraised for their suitability.