Council consults on gypsy and traveller allocation proposal

Residents are being invited to have their say on plans which could help meet the housing needs of the gypsy and traveller community within the district.

The Planning Inspector has told Folkestone & Hythe District Council (F&HDC) it needs to address the expected number of permanent gypsy and traveller residential pitches needed in the district until 2036/37 within the draft Places and Policies Local Plan.

Following a comprehensive search for appropriate sites, we have identified land adjacent to ‘The Retreat’, Lydd Road, Old Romney as our preferred location for four permanent residential pitches.

The Planning Inspector will consider the proposed site as part of the ongoing Places and Policies Local Plan examination following the six-week public consultation which launched this week. All comments received will be considered by him.

We believe this proposal fulfils the housing needs of gypsy and travellers in the district, while also protecting the wider natural and built environment. The council is committed to meeting the housing needs of our diverse community, and I would encourage people to take part in this consultation that will shape the district’s future.” Cllr David Wimble, F&HDC Cabinet Member for the District Economy

The consultation will run until 5pm on Monday 14 October. To have your say, visit our gypsy and traveller site allocation consulation page.

All documents and representation forms are also available to view in the Civic Centre and the district’s libraries during normal office hours.

Following the publication of the Planning Inspector’s report, the draft Places and Polices Local Plan will be considered for adoption by cabinet and full council.

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