HC Deb 25 October 1982 vol 29 cc320-1W
Mr. Pawsey

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many sites have been established under the Caravan Sites Act 1968; where they are situated; how many caravans he estimates are situated on the sites; and how many residents they contain.

Mr. Macfarlane:

At 1 January 1982, 3,506 caravans were accommodated on 199 local authority sites, which has been established in England under the Caravan Sites Act 1968. A list giving the location of these sites is currently available in the House of Commons Library, entitled "Gypsy Sites Provided by Local Authorities in England, January [982". Figures are not readily available for the numbers of residents on these sites.

Mr. Pawsey

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the estimated cost of providing sites under the Caravan Sites Act 1968; what is the estimated annual running costs of the sites; and how many more sites he estimates need to be provided to fulfil the need for such sites.

Mr. Macfarlane:

Since 1979 100 per cent. grant-aid for building sites has been provided as follows:

£million
1979–80 1.4
1980–81 2.0
1981–82 3.6

A global figure is not available for the running costs of such sites since these are borne by each local authority responsible for site management. On the basis of the numbers of caravans on unauthorised sites recorded in the January 1982 count, there is a need for sites for 3,800 caravans. We would expect private authorised sites to make a significant contribution.

Mr. Pawsey

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is satisfied with the working of the Caravan Sites Act; whether he has received any criticism from local authorities; and whether any recent surveys have been undertaken to estimate the effectiveness of the Act.

Mr. Macfarlane:

I am satisfied with the present working of the Caravan Sites Act 1968, as amended, bearing in mind the complexities of the problems involved. There are criticisms from local authorities from time to time. No recent surveys have been carried out but my Department keeps in touch with current developments.

Mr. Pawsey

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is satisfied with the way in which the Caravan Sites Act 1968 is working; and whether he has received any representations from chief constables on this matter.

Mr. Macfarlane:

I refer my hon. Friend to answer 2505/81/82. No representations from chief constables have been received.