ipswich.gov.uk

I understand that government policies must be fulfilled, however I feel that the land at River Hill would be better used as proposed in the public meeting (as an outdoor gym and running track for all to use) which took place on 13/02/14. In my opinion, and that of many other residents, this would help to create and maintain a sense of community between current residents. In addition, it would promote healthier and more active lifestyles (which I believe is also a Government policy).
However if this proposal is not possible for whatever reason, instead of being allocated as a gypsy and traveller site, I feel that the land would be better used as a
base to construct affordable housing for working families. This would help
rejuvenate a run-down area (Whitehouse area was defined as an area with "low levels of qualification at all levels and long term unemployment and crime") and create more diversity in the area. I also feel that if affordable housing was built, it would serve a wider demographic, whereby everybody would have the right to rent, buy or bid for these houses, including gypsies and travellers if they wish to have a
permanent base. Thus your proposal appears to discriminate against the majority, as the general public would not be able to populate the land because they would not meet the definition of a gypsy or traveller. In addition, putting this land forward as a gypsy and traveller site does not appear to make economic sense because 1) construction of affordable housing would lead to increased revenue to local council via a greater number of council tax payments each year; and 2) because of likely loss of revenue received by yourselves from Clarice House if the site goes ahead as
reported in the public meeting.
There is currently a large concentration of gypsies and travellers in Whitehouse and surrounding area and it appears to be the general feeling amongst residents that alternative locations out of the immediate area should be considered. As discussed in the public meeting, there is already a large gypsy and traveller site at West Meadow (near ASDA), as well as a site situated on Henniker Road (approx 0.5 miles from the proposed site). It was highlighted that the proposed site is linked to the existing site via pathway. It is my worry that there is potential for unrest and in-fighting between gypsy and traveller communities.
I am sure you will remember the events of summer 2013, when travellers populated the playing field between Bramford Lane and Henniker Road. The playing field was in effect, out of bounds for residents (who pay for the upkeep of this park via council tax) for the majority of the summer holiday. As you can imagine, this was frustrating and very saddening for many families in this area who cannot afford to go away on holiday. Concern also about litter. I felt 'on edge' for a large part of this time. We now worry that if you were to go ahead with the proposals, such feelings and events would become more commonplace. The issue of policing worries me. This would be likely to lead to low morale and may even lead to increased tensions between current residents and those residing on the site if it were to go ahead.