West Parley residents frustrated over camp of illegal Travellers - Dorset

From the Blackmore Vale Magazine

RESIDENTS in West Parley are frustrated about a group of Travellers who set up an illegal camp.

The Travellers have until Friday to leave West Parley Recreation Ground along Parley Close, otherwise legal action will be taken.

West Parley Parish Council are also concerned about the mess left behind once the Travellers have moved on.

Councillor John Cullen, chairman of the Parish Council said: "We have to go through a formal process to ensure that we have done everything by the book so that any subsequent court action is effective.

"When they have gone, the site will need to be cleared of rubbish and waste. We will review what further security arrangements are needed.

"Any options are expensive and we need to be sure any cost is justified."

The land along Parley Close is owned by East Dorset District Council - who will be responsible for clearing away any waste.

Dorset County Council's Gypsy and Traveller liaison officer has helped support residents, along with Dorset Police.

A spokesperson for Dorset County Council said: "The Travellers at Parley Close are camping there illegally, and so we assisted West Parley Parish Council in issuing a notice to quit the site.

"This was served on Tuesday (9 July) and the Travellers have until Friday to leave.

"As the land is owned by the district council, it has the responsibility of clearing away any rubbish left behind when the site is vacated."