Your Voice Matters: Kent County Council Seeks Views on Gypsy and Traveller Pitch Allocation Policy

Kent County Council is inviting members of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) community and stakeholders to share their views on the Pitch Allocation Policy, which determines how pitches on KCC-owned sites are allocated fairly and consistently across the county.

The consultation runs until 30 March 2026 and forms part of KCC’s commitment to improve how accommodation is managed for eligible applicants on its permanent sites. The policy sets out the criteria for allocating pitches based on individual circumstances and level of need, as well as the application process that prospective residents must follow.

To be eligible for a pitch, applicants must be from a Gypsy, Roma or Traveller background, aged 18 or over, and have either lived in Kent for at least 12 months or have close family members (grandparents, parents, children or siblings) who have lived in Kent for at least three consecutive years. Exceptional circumstances and special needs may also be considered. All applicants must have the legal right to remain in the UK.

The allocation process prioritises applicants based on their circumstances, with factors such as family size considered when matching residents to single or double-sized pitches. The policy also outlines grounds for rejection, including failure to provide complete applications, anti-social behaviour, or previous breaches of tenancy agreements.

KCC has organised a series of drop-in events where members of the GRT community can discuss the policy and provide feedback. These sessions offer an opportunity to ask questions and understand how the allocation system works in practice.

Cllr Helen Whitehead, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, previously emphasised KCC’s commitment to ensuring quality provision. “We want to ensure that Gypsy and Traveller provision is part of planning for our whole community, with the high-quality design and facilities that all our residents deserve,” she stated.

The consultation is part of a broader commitment by KCC to manage its Gypsy and Traveller accommodation fairly and transparently. The council recognises the diverse needs of its communities and aims to provide a safe environment for GRT residents to live and thrive in Kent.

Those wishing to participate in the consultation can visit KCC’s website to access the policy documents and drop-in event details, or contact the KCC GRT Resident Service on 03000 42 15 67.

Key Takeaways

• KCC is consulting on its Pitch Allocation Policy until 30 March 2026
• The policy sets out how pitches are allocated fairly to eligible Gypsy, Roma and Traveller applicants
• Drop-in events are being held for residents to provide feedback and ask questions
• Eligibility criteria include GRT background, age 18 or over, and Kent residency or family connections

What This Means for Kent Residents

If you are from a Gypsy, Roma or Traveller background and considering applying for a pitch on a KCC site, this consultation offers a valuable opportunity to shape how the allocation process works. Attending a drop-in event or submitting feedback online will help ensure your voice is heard before the deadline on 30 March 2026. For more information, contact the KCC GRT Resident Service.