Report highlights Gypsy site need

More authorised sites for Gypsies and Travellers are needed in Cumbria, a report has found.

The study, for Cumbria's six district councils, the county council and the Lake District National Park Authority, was carried out by Salford University.

It found that some of the existing sites suffered from overcrowding.

As a result, a large number of families were living in unauthorised roadside encampments or in trailers in the grounds of private houses.

'Useful research'

The report estimated there to be at least 771 Gypsies and Travellers living in Cumbria, even though there are no local authority-run sites.

There are two private sites, in Carlisle and Eden, and at least 120 Gypsy and Traveller households living in bricks and mortar accommodation.

Joel Rasbash, Equality and Diversity Officer at Cumbria County Council, said: "This is a useful piece of research which will help local authorities address the accommodation needs of all communities living in the county.

"It's crucial that in shaping the Regional Spatial Strategy we listen to the full range of voices living in the county and take on board the opinions of all community groups."