Policy information sourced from Windsor and Maidenhead Local Plan

HO 4 Gypsies and Travellers

The need for Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation will be addressed through the proposed Traveller Local Plan. The current Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment has identified a need for transit and permanent pitches to meet needs in the area. Meanwhile applications for planning permission will be considered positively in the light of national planning policy and the criteria listed below.

Planning permission for Gypsy and Traveller and Travelling Showpeople accommodation will be granted providing all of the following criteria are met:

  • the site is suitably connected by sustainable modes of transport to a settlement with health care, retail, and school facilities with capacity
  • the impact of development including in combination with existing pitches would not harm the landscape, heritage assets, biodiversity or visual character and amenity of the area, in particular the Green Belt
  • the site can be safely accessed by pedestrians, vehicles and caravans to and from the highway
  • the site is not located in an area at high risk of flooding as defined by the Council’s strategic flood risk assessment and shown on the Policies Map
  • adequate on-site utilities, including water resources and supply, waste disposal and treatment, are provided for the benefit of residents and also in order to avoid adverse impacts on the natural environment.

In addition to the above, the following criterion applies to Travelling Showpeople accommodation only: the site should be suitable for the storage and maintenance of show equipment and associated vehicles without causing harm through conflict with other policies in the Plan.

Due to the nature of this housing need, there will be continuing cooperation with neighbouring local planning authorities to ensure that the appropriate demand is identified and provision made.

For more information please see the Local Plan