Travellers at Chineham are moved on by officers - Hampshire

From the Basingstoke Observer

A Travellers’ encampment at Chineham has been moved on by police officers from Basingstoke using powers under the Road Traffic Act.

The group arrived on April 16, and set up camp in Hanmore Road, opposite Busy Bee’s nursery.

Police say the encampment was causing an obstruction to the highway and there have been numerous complaints from members of the public about mess and nuisance in the area.

District Commander Chief Inspector Steve Wallace said: “In using these powers, Hampshire Constabulary will always ensure that we balance the needs and rights of all our communities with actions that are proportionate, lawful and necessary.

“I hope this swift action to move the Travellers on from locations that were unsuitable will convey to all sections of the community that a robust approach will be taken against encampments within the law.

“We will continue to work closely with partner agencies and private landowners to manage unauthorised encampments and identify repeat locations where there has been criminality or disorder in order to target harden these sites.”