Gypsy and traveller sites | Berneslai Homes

Article: Gypsy and traveller sites

What is a gypsy and travellers site?

Berneslai Homes manage a traveller's site at Smithies Lane, Smithies, Barnsley, S71 1NL.

The site is currently undergoing redevelopment and once completed will have 30 permanent pitches, which are fully serviced with water, drainage and electricity.

The pitches are rented by travellers with their own caravan units.

We get very few vacancies on the pitches but we do run a waiting list for travellers wanting to rent a pitch.

Can anyone use this site?

Anyone who is a Gypsy Traveller can apply to join the traveller's site waiting list. However, there are certain circumstances where we may not agree to you joining the list.

These are:
1. You do not fulfill the UK residency criteria.
2. You or a member of your household has conducted unreasonable behaviour. This includes antisocial behaviour, harassment, violence to staff, rent arrears and/or debts.
3. You are under 16.

How do I apply to use the site?

Travellers site application form.  Application forms are available from the Traveller's Site Manager or your local Barnsley Connects Office. 

How long will I have to wait before I hear anything after I have applied?

We will tell you in 10 working days if you can join the list and what priority you have. If you do not agree with our decision, you can appeal.

For further details on how to appeal please see the Appeals Procedure.  

We cannot guarantee how long you will be waiting for a plot as we have a limited number of pitches that do not come empty very often.  

You can contact the traveller's site warden direct either by phone on 01226 771260 or at the site between 9am - 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. 

How do you make a decision on who can gets the next plot?

This is purely on date order however, statutory requirements may supersede this policy, for example statutory homeless.

What can I do to help?

If you want to join the traveller's site waiting list you will need to fill in an application form. We will need to check you identity so please make sure that you provide this as early as possible.

Are there any other useful websites?

• Department for Communities and Local Government