People who are part of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities are being asked for their input on the number of pitches being provided in one borough.

Maidstone council is evaluating how many plots it will need to provide for the community, especially those who are living in properties but would rather be settled somewhere more in keeping with their traditions.

It is to hold a meeting to assess the accommodation needs of the group and is asking for input from local settled residents of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller heritage.

Opinion Research Services carries out accommodation assessments across the country and has already spoken to Travellers living on sites in the town.

In a statement, the council said: “[ORS] would now like to speak to Travellers who live in bricks and mortar but who may prefer to live on a site or yard in Maidstone.”

Any Travellers who fall under this category are invited to drop-in sessions on Wednesday September 27.

The forum will be held at Fusion Health Living Centre in Park Wood from 10am until 3pm.

“There will be private rooms available if you would like to discuss your needs confidentially,” said the council.

The Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community is a nomadic group of people with strong historical connections to Kent.

Previously, members have spoken to KentOnline about feeling trapped when living in brick-and-mortar homes.

A Roma Gypsy from Faversham, Maryann Eastwood said to be stuck indoors was depressing and made her feel distant from her heritage.

Some believe living in houses undermines the traveller culture, but long waiting lists for pitches on sites leave many without a choice.

Government guidelines state that local authorities must plan for the provision of sufficient Gypsy and Traveller sites.

Any settled travellers who do want to move to a site or yard but are unable to attend the meeting can call or text ORS researchers to discuss their wishes.

ORS researchers Gill Craddock can be contacted on 07539 999901 and Lee Craddock can be reached on 07419 241925.