Upgrade at traveller site
PLANS have been lodged to expand and upgrade a gypsy and traveller site.
Gwynedd council wants to add an extra seven plots on land to the south of the existing five plot site it runs in Llandygai, Bangor.
The project would also see the current plots refurbished, with the site consisting of a mixture of pitches for touring and static caravans – each with an amenity building.
An access road and children’s play area would also be built on the site at Ffordd Llandygai, while other works will involve site clearance, fencing, earthworks, drainage, surfacing, kerbing and street lighting.
The statement reads: “Over time, it is anticipated that the proposed development when completed will reduce the economic and social difficulties and the problems that Gypsies and Travellers have encountered in the past in terms of education, welfare, health, employment and cultural differences.
“The improved facilities and resources will make a positive contribution to improving opportunities, reducing socio-economic deprivation and isolation and improve the living environment.
“Once the work is completed, the site will continue to be supported by Gwynedd Council staff who will oversee the daily management.”
The authority states all councils in Wales are required by the Welsh Government to identify housing needs for gypsies and travellers in their areas.
It adds: “It is anticipated that CCTV cameras will be installed on a warden plot for additional safety and security.
“The proposed work will not adversely affect the safety of the community. When completed, the site will manage the numbers that are there, with people on site daily, limiting the access to the site.
“The waste collection and recycling service will be extended to the site.”
The bid is one of a number to surface for similar sites in North Wales recently.
In June last year, contentious propos- als to build a gypsy site opposite the entrance to the historic Faenol Estate were thrown out by councillors.
Concerns about sewage, waste, flooding and road safety at the entrance to the site were voiced by residents.
Plans for a permanent site on land at Bangor Old Road, Conwy, were approved in April last year despite fears from residents about security and litter.
And landowners in Anglesey could be forced to sell up to make way for new sites.
Plans for the gypsy site at Llandygai will be discussed at Gwynedd Council’s planning committee.