THE number of travellers and gypsies in Dorset could have been over-estimated, the county branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has warned.

It has questioned the basis upon which the total number of sites said to be needed has been calculated.

Trevor Bevins, CPRE Dorset director, said: "If these crucial calculations amount to an over-provision, which we fear they might, it could encourage an influx of travellers to the detriment of Dorset's wellbeing.

"It could result in an increase in litter and waste not to mention the economic drain on education, healthcare and social services.

"Dorset, as with other parts of the county, is faced with increasing unemployment.

"We need to be encouraging and facilitating the migration of people who can contribute to the county's economy rather than putting a drain on it."

Dorset CPRE has appealed for residents and parishes affected by plans to locate traveller and gypsy sites in their areas to look at and comment on the proposals.

Mr Bevins added: "As an organisation that actively campaigns to protect our beautiful countryside, we are horrified at the impact any increase in travellers might have. We routinely get calls from residents appalled at the mess left by travellers.

"We know from experience that the concept of encouraging them to stay in council sites is deeply flawed."

Mr Bevins also said that CPRE is critical of the consultancy fees paid out as part of the investigation.

He said: "In the current economic climate, when local authority employees are losing jobs, it would seem nonsense to be spending these large sums of money on something which the majority of the resident population would not welcome."

CPRE is keen to hear the views of residents living in Dorset.

The organisation can be contacted on 01305 265808 or by emailing info@dorset-cpre. org.uk.