Funding for the construction of six pitches for members of the Gypsy and Traveller community, at Home Farm, Effingham, was agreed by the Executive at its meeting on 27 September.
Cllr Tony Rooth, Lead Cllr for Housing and Social Welfare, said: “We continue to show our commitment to supporting all sections of the local community, and seeing appropriate accommodation available for all. We are working towards reducing social inequality, and I am delighted that the needs of the traveller community are being taken into consideration. I would commend ward Cllr Liz Hogger and Effingham Parish Council for their support for this project.
“The development will enable the travelling families of Home Farm to continue having access to appropriate health care, through the links already established, and to continue the education of their children in local schools.”
The development of additional pitches for the travelling communities of Guildford is a priority in the corporate plan. Funds of £880,000 will be provided by the General Fund, and a further £100,000 will come from the Capital Contingency to support the delivery of the project.
Key to this development is engineering work to improve the safety of the road junction of Dirtham Lane and the A246 Guildford Road, Effingham. To comply with the planning conditions of this development, we need to make improvements to the junction before the six pitches are occupied.
