Gypsy and Traveller Site
Broadland Housing Group opened an 8 pitch Gypsy and Traveller Site in South Norfolk in November 2009.
According to a recent report by the University of Salford there is a shortfall of over 5000 traveller pitches across England. Broadland Housing Group, to the best of the knowledge of chief executive Michael Newey, is the first association to apply for funding to create a permanent Gypsy and Traveller site since grants became available through a Government scheme in 2006.
The result is eight spacious pitches, each consisting of a sizable day room (36 metre squared) complete with fitted kitchen, large bathroom and living area; a hard standing area with space for three caravans; front and back gardens; and low level storage unit. To minimise site clutter BHG has incorporated a secure general compound into the site designed to accommodate extra vehicles and high level storage.
A ground source heat pump has been laid 1.6−2.6 metres below the surface of the Site, providing a cheap and effective energy source for the day houses. The day rooms are each covered with a low maintenance sedum roof. This is not only a good all year round insulator but also supports BHG's environmental policy. BHG has also installed a sustainable drainage system, made up of 100 per cent recycled polyethylene grid with a gravel base, on the hard standings. This allows liquids from the caravans to sink into a drainage interceptor, reducing potential ground contamination.
South Norfolk District Council holds the waiting list for Brooks Green and anyone wanting an application form should contact Tony Cooke on 01508 533754.
The Traveller Liaison Officer, Jon Blunkell, can be contacted for waiting lists for the council sites in Norfolk on 01603 222 473.
Useful Gypsy and Traveller Contacts
| Ormiston (Gypsy and Traveller Trust) | 01362 854 264 |
| Traveller Education | 01603 727880 |
| One Voice 4 Travellers (domestic violence) | 07790 801422 / 07790 803176 |
| Stephen Codling, Neighbourhood Officer | 01603 750234 |
| Sarah Lovelock, Project Support Worker | 01603 750259 |
