Why do some Gypsies/Travellers make UE in Kent?
The nomadic lifestyle of ethnic Gypsies is legally recognised. Other people that choose a nomadic lifestyle enjoy the freedom to choose that lifestyle. Provided Gypsies/Travellers do not cause nuisance or anti-social behaviour, and if other factors allow it, we aim to tolerate encampments for as long as we reasonably can. However, this has to be balanced with the rights of the wider public to quietly enjoy private and public land. We will treat Gypsies and Travellers on encampments the same as we would anyone else. Whilst there are a number of authorised private and Council run sites in the county, we are aware that the Travelling community can experience some difficulties finding “authorised” sites to go to. We are looking at possible long term solutions to that problem. One such solution may be to provide ‘Transit Sites’ to where Gypsies/Travellers can be directed. Councils will consider this in their future Development Plans. The Government is providing funding for such sites in 200
