Dorset gypsy and traveller site exhibition to launch

Dorset residents can offer views on proposed new sites for gypsies and travellers across the county, at an exhibition roadshow.

Starting on Friday, the exhibition will run until 10 January 2012.

The roadshow will display numbers and locations of potential sites and consultants will be on hand to answer questions from the public.

Dorset's councils are working together to meet local needs for gypsy and traveller sites over the next 15 years.

The exhibition will go to 18 locations across the county during morning and afternoon sessions.

Response forms

Under the terms of the Housing Act 2004, local authorities must assess the accommodation needs of gypsies and travellers and identify where new pitches should be located.

Since June 2010 independent consultants have been talking to landowners, gypsies and travellers to draw up a shortlist of possible locations for Dorset.

Visitors can take away consultation booklets and forms to give their views.

Information and response forms will also be available on the Dorset council website from 18 November.

The consultation closes on 10 February 2012.