Gypsy & Traveller Scrutiny

One of our promises for 2006/07 is To Increase understanding and develop a new approach and policy for our Gypsy community

In order to do this we are currently doing a Scrutiny review to improve on our approach to our Gypsy community. A Scrutiny task and finish team, chaired by Councillor Adrian Hardman, means we can focus on the issue, review current practice in Wychavon and what’s happening elsewhere and put together a plan of improvements for the future.

There are three main outcomes of the review:

1. Better relationships between the Council and local Gypsy and Traveller communities, specifically;

• Consultation and communication mechanisms
• A protocol setting out what you can expect from us and what we can expect from you” leaflet, summarising the roles we play, key contacts and partners.

2. Breaking down barriers and building understanding between settled residents and the local Gypsy communities, specifically;

• Understanding the tensions that exist and why
• Features/articles in The Wychavon Magazine to build understanding and acceptance

3. Balancing supply of sites and demand for the future – helping to inform the planning process, specifically;

• Pre-application engagement and advice
• Proper enforcement
• If requirements for new sites arise, setting out the principles that will need to be applied

In June 2006 we held a consultation event for Parish and Town Councils to get their input on the review.  The slides from the event  (741.70 KB) are available view.  We are also currently consulting with Gypsy and Traveller communities as part of the review.

The final report  (175.43 KB) from the Scrutiny team is now available and also a summary leaflet  (194.17 KB)  The report details the work of the Scrutiny team and also sets out 30 recomendations for Wychavon District Council. Worcestershire County Council, West Mercia Police, Government bodies, Gypsies and Travellers and Parish Councils.

Further Information

For more information contact:

Fiona Narburgh
Head of Strategy & Communications
Call: 01386 565101 - between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday
Email: fiona.narburgh@wychavon.gov.uk