Traveller numbers increase in Brighton and Hove

Unauthorised Traveller numbers rose by 40% in the last 12 months – despite politicians claiming there was “no evidence” of a year-on-year hike.

Government figures show a third of all the Gypsy or Traveller groups in the south east who were not on their own land settled in Brighton and Hove in the summer.

The revelation comes after a period of heightened tension as illegal encampments were established in a number of open spaces and public parks in the city. Throughout the summer politicians from the city council’s Green administration advocated a “firm but fair” approach to the issue. They frequently hit back at “scaremongering” from opposition councillors and residents, stating there had been no increase in numbers on previous years.

But after seeing the latest Government figures, which were recorded in July, opponents claim they have now been vindicated.

Last night, environment cabinet member Pete West said the council was examining the figures and working to get a broader overview of the situation this summer.

But Conservative group leader Geoffrey Theobald said: “Here, finally, we have the evidence that backs up what everyone, apart from the Greens, could see – that their policy of toleration has not worked and has only served to increase the number of travellers coming to Brighton and Hove.

“Perhaps Coun West would now like to offer an apology to us and to the residents of this city who he has been misleading for the last six months.”