Policy information sourced from the Merton Core Planning Strategy.

CS10 Accommodation for Gypsies and Travellers

Existing legally established Gypsy and Traveller accommodation sites will be retained and protected from redevelopment except where the same number of pitches is provided on an alternative site. Proposals for additional, alternative or new Gypsy and Traveller sites will be assessed having regard to the following criteria:

  • The provision of on-site landscaping, which seeks to enhance the amenity of the site and which facilitates the integration of the site with the surrounding environment and amenity of occupiers of adjoining land;
  • Access, proximity to a main road, parking and area to allow turning and manoeuvring;
  • Proximity to shops, schools, health services and other community facilities;
  • Provision of appropriate on-site facilities such as children’s play facilities;
  • The suitability of ground conditions, particularly in respect to the potential to flooding;
  • The need or demand for accommodation provision and the available capacity on existing sites in the borough.

For more information, please see the Core Planning Strategy.