Temporary stop over areas set up in County Durham for Appleby Horse Fair
Spaces designated for travellers heading to and from the annual fair
County Durham is making preparations for the upcoming Appleby Horse Fair with the establishment of Temporary Stop Over Areas (TSOAs) to accommodate travellers heading to and from the event.
The Appleby Horse Fair is scheduled to take place from 4th June to 10th June.
Durham County Council, in partnership with a forum including local councils, businesses, and community representatives, is setting up TSOAs along traditional routes in Teesdale and South West Durham.
The initiative aims to provide safe and convenient stopping places for those journeying to the fair.
Eight locations will serve as TSOAs from 22nd May to 25th June, situated at Westerton Lay by, Gurney Valley, Broomielaw Picnic Area, Guide Post Corner at Bowes, Land at Stainton Bank, Shaw Bank Field, Wackerfield Lay by, and Winston Corner.
Local council officers and partnering agencies will make regular visits to these areas to give support and guidance to travellers.
Those residing in unauthorised encampments will be advised to use these designated stop-over areas.
Temporary signage will mark the TSOAs, alongside signs providing 'Guidance for your Stay'.
Councillor Dawn Bellingham from Durham County Council said: “These TSOAs are provided every year, and we would encourage people attending Appleby Horse Fair to use them, as they provide a safe and convenient place to stop.
“We work closely with our partners to ensure that these areas bring benefit to both users, and residents living along the routes.”
Travellers can find more information on the TSOAs at www.applebyfair.org .
Those seeking assistance from the council's Gypsy Roma Traveller Service can contact 03000 260 000 or email [email protected] .