Regional Spatial Strategy Single Issue Review: Planning for Gypsy and Traveller accommodation in the East of England
The East of England Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) will provide a clear, long-term spatial vision for the region to 2021 and beyond. It is the framework for putting into place the Government’s growth agenda within the region and ensuring that growth is sustainable. The adequate provision of homes and affordable housing to accommodate the needs of different communities is a vital element of the RSS.
In February 2006, the East of England Regional Assembly’s (EERA’s) Regional Planning Panel agreed to undertake a single issue review of the emerging RSS for the East of England, to address the needs of Gypsy and Traveller communities in the East of England.
EERA has worked closely with local authorities across the region to identify the number of additional pitches which are required to meet the needs of Gypsies and Travellers. On 25 January 2008, EERA agreed proposals for increased site provision across the region with at least 15 additional pitches in each of the 48 local planning authority areas in the region by 2011. These proposals are contained in a revised draft RSS policy (H4). EERA submitted this draft policy and supporting documents to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, the Rt Hon Hazel Blears MP, on Friday 15 February 2008.
The Government Office for the East of England (GO-East) is now holding a 12-week public consultation on the draft policy, on behalf of the Secretary of State. The consultation runs from 25 February to 16 May 2008 and this consultation portal offers you the opportunity to make your views known on this matter.
You can comment on the Regional Spatial Strategy Single Issue Review: Planning for Gypsy and Traveller accommodation in the East of England and/or the Sustatinability Appraisal that was undertaken to inform the development of the policy. Please follow the link(s) below.