Travellers and Gypsy sites: nothing suitable in The Deepings...

I’m planning to be at tonight’s public meeting over the white-hot issue of possible traveller and gypsy sites in The Deepings.

I seconded a motion by Councillor Andy Pelling at last night’s meeting of Deeping St James Parish Council, to the effect that:

After initial consideration of the stated requirements for a traveller and gypsy sites, DSJ Parish Council believes that there are no such suitable locations in The Deepings.

Councillor Ray Auger, a member of the Conservative Cabinet at SKDC, suggested it was unreasonable for the Parish Council to come to a view before the consultation period begins. He was one of three parish councillors to abstain.

In the end, no-one voted against and the motion was passed.

While we need to listen to all the arguments put forward in South Kesteven District Council’s yet-to-begin consultation, I believe it is important that DSJ Parish Council provides leadership in big issues which affect our community.

We will fully debate the issue at our August meeting before making detailed representation to SKDC who will make the final decision in the autumn on identifying gypsy and traveller sites across the entire district.

Councillor Kate Shinkins will represent DSJ Parish Council at tonight's public meeting which starts at 7.30 at Deepings Leisure Centre here in Deeping St James.

There’ll be a presentation on SKDC’s proposals by Mark Harrison, Planning Policy Manager. The meeting has been organised by MP John Hayes.