Draft guidance for managing Gypsy and Traveller sites - Annex 1: glossary

Pitch

Land on a mobile home site where occupiers are entitled to station their mobile homes indefinitely (unless stated in their pitch agreement). Typically includes an amenity block, space for a static caravan and touring caravan and parking.

The layout of the pitch will depend on the overall site design. An important element in the design and size of pitches is the intended capacity. Section 60 of the Mobile Homes (Wales) Act defines a ‘mobile home’ as measuring up to 20 metres in length and 6.8 metres in width.

Site

A site will include a range of facilities, (dependant on size of land and requirements), connections to utilities, community building, play area, footpath around the site, public lighting, and fencing/trees to create a perimeter boundary for security and enclosure.

Local authority site

This is a site owned and operated by the local authority. This site will be designated for use as a Gypsy and Traveller site indefinitely. Residents on these sites can expect to occupy their pitches for as long as they abide by the terms of their pitch agreements, under the Mobile Homes (Wales) Act 2013. Working space may also be provided on, or near, sites for activities carried out by community members.

Transit pitch

Land on a mobile home site where occupiers are entitled to station their mobile homes for a maximum of 3 months. Transit pitches can exist on permanent residential sites, however, this is not recommended.

Transit site

Transit sites are permanent facilities designed for temporary use by occupiers. These sites are intended to provide a route for Gypsies and Travellers to maintain a nomadic way of life. Individual occupiers are permitted to reside on the site for a maximum of three months at a time. Local authorities will be responsible for maintaining the site, including the provision of waste disposal, water supply and sanitation will be available.

Specific terms under the Mobile Homes (Wales) Act 2013 apply on these sites. Working space may also be provided on, or near, sites for activities carried out by community members.

Settled communities

A settled community consists of people who are not members of the Gypsy and Traveller community and who reside in bricks and mortar housing.