COUNCIL bosses in Hambleton are drawing up plans to deal with a shortage of space for travellers in the district.

A recent study carried out for Hambleton District Council showed 26 pitches will be needed over the next 15 years, with 11 of them required by 2017.

Meanwhile, ten plots for travelling fairground workers, or “showmen”, will be needed by 2019.

The authority is asking landowners, parish councillors and the traveller community to help find and suggest potentially suitable sites which it will then assess and possibly invite planning applications to be made.

Coun Mark Robson, portfolio holder for planning, said any sites must not affect nearby residents, must be close to a town or large village with access to services such as schools, have good road access and not be in “protected sensitive areas”.

“The Government expects councils to provide adequate suitable sites to meet established local housing needs from travellers, and it is essential we act to fund them as quickly as possible,” he said.

Suggestions can be made by phoning Amanda Madden on 01609 767048 or emailing amanda.madden@hambleton.gov.uk