Issue - meetings

This report sets out the strategic direction of Warwickshire County Council working in partnership with health, education and police, to the provision of suitable, well managed sites and services which protect and support both the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities as well as local residents and businesses.

Councillor Heather Timms explained the background to the report adding that a number of financial decisions will be required in view of the framework.

Councillor Adkins reminded Cabinet that Roma people, Gypsies and Travellers are part of the Black and Minority Ethnic community. It is important to ensure that communication with these communities is effective, she added.

Councillor Jeff Morgan commented on problems encountered with illegal encampments in Bulkington. He stressed the need to address the issues and for better communication between Travellers and the community.

Councillor Dave Parsons welcomed the proposed priorities but echoed the concerns expressed by Councillor Morgan. He questioned how effective the framework would be given the limited number of staff in the Gypsy and Traveller unit. A number of particular concerns were highlighted at Alvecote.

Councillor Heather Timms assured members that the framework will be used to address inequalities. Regarding problems being encountered around the County, a hub is required that can report into the Safer Warwickshire Partnership.

A vote was held.

Resolved:

That Cabinet:

1) Approve the strategic priorities for Gypsy and Traveller Provision, set out in this report as the Strategic Framework for Gypsies and Travellers 2020-2025.

2) Approve the intention to establish a Warwickshire Multi Agency Gypsy and Traveller Hub which:-

 Provides a consistent countywide approach to addressing unauthorised

encampments.

 Provides a co-ordinated approach to all other forms of management of

local authority sites, including welfare, education, employment support,

addressing discrimination and the use of enforcement powers to tackle

anti-social and criminal behaviour;

 Works with planning services and private landowners to provide

adequate site provision.

3) Agrees that a policy for long and short term site provision for Gypsies and

Travellers together with an allocations policy will be developed with key

partners and representatives of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community

with a view to a further report being presented to Cabinet for approval in the

Spring 2021.