The government requires each Local Planning Authority (LPA) to have a ‘robust evidence base’ to work out how many pitches are needed in its area over a certain period of time. The council will often employ research companies to carry out this work. They will need to take account of people who are:
- Living on the side of the road
- Doubled up on existing pitches
- Teenagers who will need their own pitch
- Living in bricks and mortar and want a pitch
- Wanting to move into an area
- On the waiting list for a council pitch
If you live on a site, you will most likely receive a visit from someone wishing to carry out an interview. It’s important that you let them know:
- About the travelling that you do, including any business that you do whilst travelling (including buying and selling at horse fayres). You don’t need to give details of your money, just that you travel and work;
- About any children who will need a pitch of their own;
- About anyone you know who wants a pitch in the area, including those in housing (take a phone number and encourage those in housing who want a pitch to get in touch with whoever is doing the interviews).
The LPA needs to know about people who need pitches in order for them to look at providing sites. Taking part in the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment is one good way of doing this.