A new approach to address the social and accommodation issues faced by Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities in Brent has been unveiled by the council.
Over the summer, Brent Council has been working closely with residents of the Lynton Close Traveller Site in Stonebridge to address overcrowding and fire safety risks. These conversations have underscored the need for a comprehensive strategy worked up in partnership with Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities and underpinned by an understanding of their needs and culture.
In meetings with the council, the local Irish Traveller community who live in Brent have highlighted access to suitable accommodation and the opportunity to meaningfully shape services which support residents’ health and wellbeing and ability to thrive in education and employment as key issues for them. Data from the latest Census and other sources supports the need to improve outcomes in these areas.
At a meeting of Brent Council’s Cabinet today (Monday 8 September), councillors agreed to:
- Consult on a new long-term strategy for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities.
- Develop a new Pitch Allocation Policy, aimed at creating a more transparent and fairer system for allocating pitches on permanent and temporary sites.
- Reduce weekly pitch rent at Lynton Close Traveller Site to bring charges in line with the London average, in an effort to reduce the risk of residents getting into debt.
- Invest up to £500,000 for site improvements at Lynton Close, with a commitment to allowing residents to help shape how the funds are used
