6 days ago
LISTED: The temporary stop offs in County Durham for travellers heading to Appleby
Eight temporary stop-off areas in County Durham have been identified for travellers en-route to Appleby Horse Fair.
As in previous years, Durham County Council has set up Temporary Stop Over Areas (TSOAs) along roads traditionally used by travellers heading to and from the fair.
The fair will be held on its traditional date and will run from Thursday 5 to Wednesday, June 11.
Eight TSOAs have been prepared in Teesdale and South West Durham, which are open now until Friday, June 28.
The TSOAs in South West Durham are located at:
Westerton Layby, DL14 8AL
Gurney Valley, DL14 8RP
The sites located in Teesdale are:
Broomielaw Picnic Area, DL12 8TT
Guide Post Corner, Bowes, DL12 9HU
Land at Stainton Bank, DL12 8RQ
Shaw Bank Field, DL12 8TD
Wackerfield Layby, DL2 3AP
Winston Corner, DL2 3RW
Temporary signs will be in place showing the locations of the TSOAs as well as signed guidance for those who encamp.
Officers from the council and representatives from other organisations will be making regular visits to the TSOAs and, should any appear, unauthorised encampments, to ensure appropriate support is offered to those using them.
Owen Cleugh, Durham County Council's safer places manager, said: 'We have been working closely with partners, businesses, residents and members of the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller community to provide sites ahead of Appleby Fair.
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'The TSOAs are being set up for the benefit of both those using them and residents living along the routes. We would strongly encourage those travelling to utilise the designated areas, instead of camping in unauthorised locations.'
Sites are being provided as part of a coordinated response with the South West Durham and Dales Business, Residents and Travellers group.
This group includes representatives from the council, town and parish councils, Durham Constabulary, businesses and Gypsy, Roma, Traveller representatives.
Those travelling to Appleby can find more information about TSOAs here.
