POLL: Is Angela Rayner right to soften laws on 'illegal' traveller sites? Vote now

Following Angela Rayner's controversial planning changes, we are asking readers: is the Housing Secretary right to soften the rules on 'illegal' Traveller sites? The Government has revised England's planning framework, removing previous references to limiting environmental damage and long-distance travel when considering Traveller sites.

Critics say the changes could make it harder for councils to challenge unauthorised developments. The changes form part of a wider overhaul of planning rules announced by Ms Rayner as the Government attempts to accelerate housebuilding.

What do you think? Is Angela Rayner right to soften laws on 'illegal' Traveller sites? Vote in our poll and share your views in the comments below.

Opponents have accused ministers of weakening local authorities' ability to resist Traveller sites that are established without planning permission, while the Government insists stronger protections against intentional unauthorised development are in place.

Current Government policy says councils should aim to reduce unauthorised developments and encampments, make enforcement more effective and protect local amenity and the environment.

Supporters of the changes argue the planning system should treat Traveller accommodation fairly and avoid blanket restrictions which could unfairly discriminate against a nomadic way of life.

They also point to the need for councils to provide enough authorised sites.

Critics argue the changes risk making it easier for unauthorised sites to remain in place and could leave councils with fewer grounds to oppose retrospective planning applications.

The row comes as councils continue to deal with disputes over Traveller sites and encampments.

Government figures state that local authorities remain responsible for assessing the need for Traveller sites and deciding individual planning applications.

The issue has also become politically charged, with Conservative critics accusing Labour of making it easier for unauthorised developments to gain planning approval.