Kent Council Hosts Drop-In Event on Gypsy and Traveller Sites Policy Changes

Kent County Council is hosting a drop-in event to discuss proposed changes to how pitches are allocated on its Gypsy and Traveller sites. The session takes place on Thursday, 6 March from 3pm to 5pm at Dover Library, with council staff available to answer questions and support residents who wish to participate in the consultation process.

Background to the consultation

Kent County Council is reviewing its pitch allocation policy across seven council-managed Gypsy and Traveller sites, including the Three Lakes Caravan Site in Sittingbourne. The consultation aims to ensure allocation processes are fair and transparent whilst reflecting recent changes to national planning policy.

In December 2024, the government updated Planning Policy for Traveller Sites to expand the definition of ‘Gypsies and Travellers’. The revised definition now includes individuals who have ceased to travel due to age, health conditions, or education needs. This change means councils must consider the accommodation needs of these groups in planning and allocation decisions. However, the council clarified that the new definition does not automatically grant the right to a council pitch; eligibility will continue to be determined through local allocation criteria and licence agreements.

Consultation timeline and support

The consultation period opened on 4 February 2026 and runs until 30 March 2026. In addition to the Dover Library event, the council is running several in-person drop-in sessions where staff from the GRT Resident Service are available to provide assistance. The council is also accepting feedback through the Let’s Talk Kent engagement portal, with consultation materials published online.

After the consultation closes, Kent County Council will analyse responses and produce a consultation report. The proposals are scheduled to be presented to the council’s Growth, Environment and Transport committee in May 2026, with the final policy expected to be considered for adoption by summer 2026.

Site improvements underway

The review is being supported by a refurbishment programme funded in part by a £3.8 million grant secured by the council in 2023. The funding is being used to upgrade utilities and drainage across the seven sites. Three Lakes in Sittingbourne is among the sites receiving these improvements.

The council has indicated that better-managed sites are expected to help reduce unauthorised encampments by improving conditions on official pitches.

Key Takeaways

• Kent County Council is consulting on changes to pitch allocation policy for its seven Gypsy and Traveller sites until 30 March 2026
• A drop-in event is scheduled for 6 March at Dover Library from 3pm to 5pm, with council staff available to answer questions
• Recent national policy changes have expanded the definition of Gypsies and Travellers to include those who have ceased travelling due to age, health or education needs
• Site improvements are being funded through a £3.8 million grant, with upgrades to utilities and drainage underway

What This Means for Kent Residents

Residents interested in learning more about the proposed changes or wishing to contribute to the consultation are encouraged to attend the Dover Library session on 6 March. Those unable to attend can engage through the Let’s Talk Kent portal or contact the GRT Resident Service directly for additional support.