Memorandum by The Showmen's Guild of Great
Britain, Yorkshire Section (TF 15)
1. The continued value of historic travelling
fairs.
Funfairs provide unique entertainment, they
are part of the English heritage and it is not only important
to the Showmen to see that these fairs continue but also the general
public.
2. The Provision of sites for travelling
fairs.
Some local authorities do not take into account
the needs of the Showmen when a traditional fairground site is
lost to redevelopment, they do not appreciate that the Showmen
need an alternative site, preferably one that is hard standing
and has the necessary services.
3. The particular needs of travelling Showpeople
in carrying out their trade.
Showmen need a secure base where they can park
their trailers and equipment. Through the closed season they maintain
and repair their equipment in accordance with H&SE requirements.
4. The effectiveness of existing planning
guidance on the provisions of quarters for travelling Showpeople.
Planning permission is never straightforward
as far as the Showmen are concerned. Their planning applications
become a political issue and the local authorities ignore Circular
22/91. This document needs to be reviewed and brought up to date.
5. Whether any action is necessary to ensure
that appropriate regard etc.
Local authorities should be made aware of the
special needs of travelling Showmen within the planning system.
February 2000
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