In response to the comments of Terry Stewart (Fears over ‘secret’ traveller sites list, Daily Echo, May 14) Sir Michael Pitt was called in by Poole council to investigate totally unfounded rumours that had been circulated concerning allegations of irregularities in the planning process. Not only did he find no evidence for the rumours but in a communication stated: “The people of Poole are well served and have a high performing council that they can be proud of”.

Government legislation requires local authorities to assess the need for gypsy and traveller accommodation requirements. Following the establishment of a need for a travellers transit site within the borough, it is for the council to initially assess if there is any site or sites within Poole that are suitable for the purpose.

Many of the sites assessed will be unsuitable but until the process is further advanced we are not in a position to say if any suitable site may exist.

Cllr Brian Leverett, Poole council leader