Introduction

1. The Greater Norwich authorities (Broadland, Norwich and South Norfolk - the ‘Partnership’) submitted the Greater Norwich Local Plan (GNLP) for independent examination in July 2021.

2. In resolving to submit the GNLP for independent examination, the Partnership councils agreed to “proactively identify and bring forward sufficient Gypsy and Traveller sites to meet identified needs in accordance with the criteria-based policies of the current and emerging Development Plans”.

3. During the GNLP hearing sessions in February/March 2022 the inspectors indicated that they would require Gypsy and Traveller accommodation needs to be addressed through site allocations in the plan in accordance with the expectations set out in paragraph 68 of the NPPF.

4. This document responds by considering 10 favoured sites to provide permanent residential pitches for Gypsies and Travellers and 1 reasonable alternative site.  

5. Three sites have been submitted for consideration through the South Norfolk Village Clusters Plan which have been rejected as “unreasonable”. As a result, no policies for these sites have been included in this document. However, maps for these sites are included and comments can be submitted. More information on the reasons for classifying the sites as unreasonable is in the Site Assessment Information document.

6. This consultation also provides a further opportunity for landowners to propose more sites for Gypsies and Travellers.