Swansea Traveller site debate proves an online hit - Glamorgan

From the South Wales Evening Post

THE ongoing Travellers site row in Swansea has proved an internet hit for the council.

Last week's meting to discuss the issue was the first ever to be broadcast live on the web and was watched by more than 1,000 viewers.

The meeting to discuss proposals for a second permanent Traveller site saw 800 viewers watch it live, with almost 500 picking it up afterwards.

The interest in the Travellers issue means that the council will now broadcast the next cabinet meeting during which the issue will be discussed.

A report identifying two parcels of land for a second official Travellers site in Swansea was thrown out last week.

It means a new search for a site has now begun.

Christine Richards, deputy leader and cabinet member for citizen, community engagement and democracy, said: "This was the first time the council has ever broadcast its proceedings live and on the internet.

"It's encouraging that so many people were interested and took the time to tune in to see the debate going on.

"Our aim was to ensure that everyone who wanted to get involved in the debate had the opportunity to participate whether it was through attending the meeting itself or watching it online.

"What this shows is that people will want to watch council proceedings on important issues that interest them.

"Cabinet is due to consider the recommendations from the council meeting next week and that meeting will be broadcast live via the internet as well."

Mrs Richards added: "The decision to broadcast the meetings is part of the council's commitment to openness, ensuring that people have the opportunity to see their council in action."

The council has to create a second permanent Gypsy and Traveller site because the existing site at Pantyblawd Road is full.

A three-month consultation on a five-site shortlist ended in March 2013 and resulted in more than 3,000 responses along with a number of petitions.

The proceedings from the extraordinary meeting of council can still be seen by going to www.swansea.public-i.tv/core

Future meetings due to be broadcast include the cabinet meeting of November 12.