VAN DWELLING IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Brighton and Hove City Council has agreed to form a cross-Party working group to look into the implications of people living in vans around the city.

The decision came about following a discussion at the Full Council meeting on the 28th January when Conservative City Council Leader, Councillor Mary Mears, proposed a Motion at the Council initially suggesting that a bye-law should be considered to give the Council powers to move on van dwellers from their parking places. Councillor Mears reported on the concerns that had been raised about the living conditions of van dwellers.

Following a discussion in the Council Chamber with other political parties it was agreed to withdraw the suggestion of a bye-law but the Council Leader proposed the establishment of a working group which would also involve outside organisations that work with the Council, such as the police, and this was accepted.

The debate focussed on the illegality of living on the highway, concerns about health and safety of the van dwellers and the welfare of children.

I will be watching the progress of the working group with interest.