Unauthorised sites are growing but travellers say they are forced to break the law

England is experiencing a significant rise in unauthorized Gypsy and traveler sites, with figures showing a 73% increase since January 2020. In January of this year, there were 4,950 caravans on sites without planning permission, a stark jump from 2,860 in early 2020. The trend continued through the summer, with a 44% increase in unauthorized caravans between July 2019 and July 2023.

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loss of control

This surge has led to widespread local dismay and legal battles. One senior councilor in an affected area described a "loss of control" over the planning system. Residents near a newly developed site likened its rapid construction to a "military operation," highlighting the disruptive impact on communities. The government has condemned unauthorized development as "totally unacceptable" and asserted that councils possess "strong powers" to address the issue.

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military operation

However, Cliff Codona, chair of the National Travellers' Action Group, argues that the current planning system acts as a "big dagger in their back" for travelers, effectively forcing them into unlawful actions. He points to a "shortfall" in the supply of suitable and deliverable sites, as noted in a February report concerning Basildon. This borough has not updated its local plan, which guides development, since 1999, leading to intervention from the housing minister.

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totally unacceptable

Analysts project that by 2042, Basildon alone will need enough pitches for 302 Gypsy and traveler households. Despite this need, between April 2023 and February 2026, permission has only been granted for 31 new pitches. Planning consultants suggest that while councils can seek injunctions to remove people, the fundamental question remains: "if they go somewhere, where do they go?" This highlights a systemic issue where the lack of legal sites pushes travelers to establish unauthorized ones.

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strong powers