Cumbria Gypsy and Traveller accommodation needs assessment : Executive summary

The research and report were commissioned by the authorities within Cumbria (Eden District Council; Copeland Borough Council; Allerdale Borough Council; Carlisle City Council; Barrow-in-Furness Borough Council; South Lakeland District Council; and, Lake District National Park Authority) in May 2007. The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the Salford Housing & Urban Studies Unit at the University of Salford. The study was greatly aided by research support and expertise from members of the Gypsy and Traveller communities. The study was managed by a Steering Group composed of officers representing the commissioning authorities. The assessment was undertaken by conducting: a review of available literature, data and secondary sources; a detailed questionnaire completed by housing and planning officers; consultations with key stakeholders; and a total of 130 interviews with Gypsies and Travellers from a range of tenures and community groups