We have three permanent gypsy and traveller sites at:

• Water Lane, Clifton
• Outgang Lane, Osbaldwick
• James Street, York

There are no private sites in York.

In total, there are 55 individual pitches, most are big enough for two caravans and one or two vehicles. Each pitch has its own service block which includes a kitchen area and bathroom. You pay for electricity by buying cards which slot into the meter. There are regular visits from support workers who manage the site and help you when required.

You will be expected to maintain your own pitch which includes keeping the garden area clean and tidy. You will be responsible for the general upkeep of the site and not causing any nuisance.

Applying for a pitch

All vacant pitches are allocated following the guidelines set out in the Travellers allocations policy:

Anyone wanting accommodation can apply although you will not be offered a pitch if:

• you have any other home (or own any property) elsewhere
• you owe money for any reason to the council
• you currently, or have in the past, trespassed on one of the City of York traveller sites.

How are pitches are allocated?

The current waiting list operates on a 'priority' system, with points being awarded when an applicant has medical problems relating to their housing, when they lack or share facilities or need community care. This is explained in the policy.

Contact us to apply to register on the waiting list.

In April 2006 a new allocations policy will be introduced with a banding system.

Cost

There is a licence charge for the pitch of around £70 per pitch per week. You can apply for Housing Benefit to help you pay for this but it does not include water and sewerage charges. You will also have to pay Council Tax for your pitch and you can apply for Council Tax Benefit to help you pay for this.

Can I be considered for any other kind of rented accommodation?

You can apply to join the York housing list which is a list of people who want to be considered for flats and houses owned by the council and housing associations.

Health services for travellers

If you are a traveller and you are not registered with a GP you can use the Primary Medical Services (PMS) located in the York NHS Walk-in Centre.

Independent advice

If you would like advice that is independent from the council contact York Travellers Trust :

write/ call in: York Travellers Trust, 20 Falsgrave Crescent, Burton Stone Lane, York YO30 7AZ
tel: (01904) 630526
York Travellers Trust website

Illegal gypsy and traveller encampments

If you wish to report an illegal encampment within York please contact the York Pride Action Line giving details of the location and any problems.