Why should we have to make special provision for gypsy and traveller sites?
It is a legal requirement to allocate sufficient pitches to meet the identified need. If we do not do this through the Local Development Framework process, then our planning policy documents could be found unsound by a Planning Inspector, at significant cost and with adverse consequences for the future development of the city. If there is evidence of need that we do not address, the Secretary of State has power to make us find sites. If sites are not identified, it is likely that planning applications from individual gypsys or travellers will be submitted, and there is a greater likelihood that if refused planning permission, consent would be allowed on appeal.
