PROPOSED gipsy and traveller sites on land in Arlesey and Clifton remain on the shortlist that will be considered by Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC). The decision was made today by CBC s sustainable communities overview and scrutiny committee. At the m

PROPOSED gipsy and traveller sites on land in Arlesey and Clifton remain on the shortlist that will be considered by Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC).

The decision was made today by CBC's sustainable communities overview and scrutiny committee.

At the meeting members discussed the recommendations of the council's development strategy task force for 11 proposed shortlisted sites, and representatives from the local community had their opportunity to speak on those sites.

After detailed discussion, members recommended not to take forward the Marston Moretaine site, and sites at Seddington and Hatch. Portfolio holder for sustainable development, Cllr Tom Nicols, will make the final decision on which sites will be put out for public consultation.

Cllr Nicols said: "This morning saw the next step in the gipsy and traveller process where members discussed the proposed shortlist of sites.

"I will now consider their recommendations when reviewing the current shortlist, and decide on the final list which will be put out for consultation. This will of course need to reflect Government guidance on the sustainable location of sites.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who attended this morning's meeting. Views from the local community are vitally important to this process and we are encouraging local people to take part in this consultation and raise their comments on potential sites in their area.

"I would like to stress to residents that no final decision has been taken on the gipsy and traveller sites for Central Bedfordshire and there is still a long way to go in the process."

The need to secure an extra 40gipsy and traveller pitches follows Government advice and fulfils the Council's requirements under the Housing Act 2004. All local authorities are required by the Act to develop a strategy which addresses the needs of the travelling community.

The site being considered in Clifton is on land to the south of the village east of New Road. In Arlesey it is on land at the rear of 197 Hitchin Road.

The full public consultation is due to start on January 25, and will run for six weeks.