News MBC calls for sites for gypsy and traveller community
Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is requesting information about land and sites which could be developed into suitable accommodation for the Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople community.
Part of the council’s emerging Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document (DPD), the call for sites exercise will assist with identifying available land with development potential. MBC is particularly keen to hear from landowners, developers and their agents, however nominations are invited from any member of the public, provided they are able to confirm the landowner is willing to make the site available.
All submissions will be considered but it is important to note that submitting a site does not guarantee its suitability for development, nor does it indicate it will be granted planning permission in the future.
Councillor Paul Cooper, Chairman of Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Committee at MBC adds:
“Working with residents to ensure the land in our borough meets all of our needs is an essential part of our DPD.“As valued members of our diverse population, it’s important that we provide quality accommodation for gypsy and traveller groups. Designating approved sites helps to avoid unregulated use of land in the future and encourages harmony within our community.”
Anyone wishing to nominate a site is encouraged to read the guidance document before making a submission using the dedicated submission form. The form, along with more information about the Call for Sites is available through the following link on the council’s website: https://localplan.maidstone.gov.uk/home/local-plan-review
The Call for Sites opens today Tuesday 1 February 2022 and the deadline is Thursday 31st March 2022. Sites can be submitted either:
- By email to ldf@maidstone.gov.uk or
- By post to Strategic Planning (Call for Sites), Maidstone Borough Council, Maidstone House, King Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JQ.