Interim Gypsy/Traveller site design guide

7. Site Design – Transit Sites

COSLA launched a 12 month Negotiated Stopping Pilot in September 2020 which focused on a public health and human rights-based approach in the context of the pandemic. Research and evaluation has been built into the pilot to inform future provision and increase quality of life and access to services for Gypsy/Travellers living roadside. The work of local authorities involved in the pilot will be promoted and shared for consideration of learning and the applicability of the model in other local areas.

While the Negotiated Stopping Pilot is one way to improve services for Gypsy/Travellers living road side, a high number of unauthorised encampments and other evidence from community views may indicate a need for site provision in the area. Local authorities should also consider whether there is sufficient traffic to suggest that a transit site is needed, e.g. in order to balance the needs of Gypsy/Traveller communities with those of the settled community. The provision of temporary stopping and transit sites should be considered through the HNDA and LHS process and may involve discussions with neighbouring authorities to look at wider patterns of travel. Transit and temporary stopping place provision and the standards required varies in other parts of the UK. Requirements for provision of facilities on transit sites and stopping sites may differ between areas, for example depending on the typical duration of stay or other facilities available in the area. Local authorities should assess what is required drawing on the evidence, including discussions with members of the community who travel through the area and local residents, to ensure their needs are met.

Temporary stopping and transit sites are likely to need to be situated closer to major transport links to facilitate travelling. Proximity to ferry ports and major road networks may also be an important consideration when planning site locations.

It is not recommended that transit pitches are provided alongside permanent pitches as this may result in disruption to residents.

"A mixed transit/residential site would be unlikely to work well. People would rather not live permanently on a site which is part transit due to the turnover on transit pitches." Gypsy/Travellers, Consultation Event, July 2021

However, there may be instances where a site includes both types of pitches and this should be taken in to account in the site layout, for example by separating the different types of provision in to different zones.

Local authorities should consider, through consultation with members of the community who frequent the area what type of site is required. Some Gypsy/Travellers told us that transit sites can become semi-permanent if there isn't permanent accommodation in the area, as people choose to stay longer. It therefore needs to be clear that it is transit rather than permanent facilities that are needed and that the right facilities are provided.

The size of transit sites should balance the need to keep travelling families together on the site whilst ensuring effective management and maintenance.

The layout of pitches should ensure that the separation distances between caravans required for fire safety purposes can be observed.

7.1 Amenities

As a minimum, on a transit or temporary stopping site, each pitch should have:

• an electric point
• a toilet, portable if necessary
• access to water for sanitation and laundry
• waste disposal facilities

Responses to the online survey have told us that these are the basics that are required, however more substantial accommodation may be appropriate. Any shared facilities should have fully segregated male and female toilet or shower facilities with hot and cold water supply.

It is recommended local authorities provide on-site or adjacent parking/storage areas to ensure site occupiers are able to travel for economic purposes.