Agenda and minutes

Minutes of the meeting held on 24 November 2017 attached.

RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 24 November 2017 be signed as a correct record.

Nicola Glassbrook, Senior Public Health Officer (Health Inequalities) to report.

The Chair reported on his Cabinet Member remit (which included gypsy and travellers) and the challenges across Devon for the County Council working alongside Devon District Councils (as housing authorities) in identifying suitable provision and sites.  Whilst some travellers were responsible, settled and integrated more readily into localities, others presented behaviours that caused difficulties for local communities and local authorities.     

Whilst the Senior Public Health Officer was not present at this meeting, the Chair reported that a high level joint County Council/South Hams District Council Officer meeting was taking place on 25 April 2018 to try to address local issues and site provision.  This Committee’s District Councillor representative advised that the Officer meeting would help pave the way forward for working jointly with the County Council.

Members comments included:- 

- there was a current Government consultation on which DALC had been inviting views;

- in 1 local electoral division there were currently 7 illegal camps;

- the use of public resources on more proactive measures may help to reduce the costs

  of moving travellers on, clearing up operations and Bed & Breakfast provision;

- the Local Plan needed to consider travellers;

- many traveller issues had to be considered on a case by case basis; and

- shared suggestions and good practice would be welcomed.

The Chair would be advised of the outcome of the 25 April 2018 joint Officer meeting and he would update members accordingly. 

Please use link below for County Council Calendar of Meetings:

http://democracy.devon.gov.uk/mgCalendarMonthView.aspx?GL=1&bcr=1

Members noted the dates of future meetings in line with the Councils calendar of meetings http://democracy.devon.gov.uk/mgCalendarMonthView.aspx?GL=1&bcr=1

6 July 2018

23 November 2018

5 April 2019.

Meetings at Follaton House, Totnes.