WAGC30/07 - Planning for Gypsy And Traveller caravan sites

Introduction

1. A review of the current planning policy guidance contained in Welsh Office Circular 2/94 “Gypsy Sites and Planning” and in paragraph 9.2.20 of Ministerial Interim Planning Policy Statement 01/2006 “Housing”, Welsh Assembly Government (June 2006) has been undertaken by the Welsh Assembly Government.

This has been informed by:

• the then National Assembly for Wales Equality of Opportunity Committee’s “Review of Service Provision for Gypsies and Travellers” (May 2003) and the Welsh Assembly Government response (2004) to it;
• the recommendations of the Welsh Assembly Government commissioned research study “Accommodation needs of Gypsy - Travellers in Wales”(2006);
• the provisions of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 providing for the introduction of a new Local Development Plan system in Wales; and public consultation from December 2006 - July 2007 on the terms of a draft Circular.

2. The following provides updated guidance on the planning aspects of finding sustainable sites for Gypsies and Travellers and how local authorities and Gypsies and Travellers can work together to achieve this aim. It supersedes advice contained in Circular 2/94 “Gypsy Sites and Planning” which is hereby cancelled.