There are no authorised sites in the Scottish Borders other than the commercially managed Innerleithen site. We recognise that Gypsy/Travellers are restricted as to where they can legally encamp in the region.
Our rights and responsibilities
- seek a balance between the needs of the ‘settled community’ and needs of Gypsy/Travellers
- protect the local environment from abuse (litter)
- evict individuals who do not fulfil their responsibilities in relation to staying on unauthorised sites
Unauthorised sites - limitations of stay
When unauthorised sites emerge, we will follow the ‘good neighbour code’ which means that we will:
- provide information on waste disposal and other public services to assist your transit through the Scottish Borders
- respond to any issues you may have
Our Gypsy/Traveller Liaison Officer will:
- visit the site on a regular basis and make contact with you
- ask you about your welfare, education and health needs
- provide information on waste collection and the process in place for dealing with trade waste
- check how long you have been at the site and plan to be there
- inform you of concerns that local people have and discuss with you what action you can take to resolve these concerns
- listen to concerns you have, and take action to resolve them where possible
- check if there are any animal welfare concerns
A list of useful contacts is also available.
Gypsy/Traveller rights and responsibilities
- fair treatment by us
- not to be discriminated against by the settled community or local service providers
- access health, welfare and educational services without discrimination
While temporarily staying on unauthorised sites it is your responsibility to:
- keep groups to a reasonable size for the area occupied
- look after the land and respect nearby neighbours
- dispose of rubbish properly in bags or waste bin
- use public or own chemicals toilets and dispose of waste appropriately
- no flytipping
- ensure that the encampment does not create a road or road traffic hazard
- park vehicles safely
- do not light fires
- keep animals under control at all times
- clear up all animal waste
- comply with trading and selling regulations
- keep noise levels to a minimum after 10pm
Unsuitable locations
There is a likelihood of being moved immediately because of risks to health/safety/environment from the following areas:
- areas with known toxic waste/areas of environmental concern
- a site of scientific/environmental interest
- on a public road/verge of a public road
- a site where pollution may damage the local water supply
- in parks, sports or recreation grounds
- in close proximity to railway lines