IT IS national policy that as part of the Local Plan we are required to identify a five-year land supply for the provision of gypsy and travellers and travelling show people sites.

As part of a sub-regional and pan-Cheshire approach we have jointly commissioned a gypsy and travellers needs assessment to establish the need across the sub- region, and Cheshire East have also engaged an independent external consultant to undertake a site identification study to establish suitable sites across the authority.

The report is in its final stages and no decision has yet been taken. Once a suitable list of sites has been established, the report will form part of the Local Plan evidence base and will be available to the public.

It is a very difficult discussion around traveller sites and we are being very sensitive to this. I am pleased we have received numerous sites from the private sector and these have been examined. Once the report has been published a clear debate will be undertaken and through the planning process, consultation with stakeholders and the public will be undertaken.

There has been some confusion on a site mentioned in the Memorandum of Understanding with Stockport. I am happy to clarify the mistake by a councillor. There are no sites in Cheshire East for gypsy and travellers at Handforth or Wilmslow. There have been sites proposed but the independent consultant has ruled them out.

There is a site still under consideration which is council-owned land, based within the boundary of Stockport. This site would require co-operation with Stockport to deliver, especially on planning and access. The report will be released as soon as possible.

Clr Michael Jones Leader, Cheshire East Council