From the Telegraph and Argus
TRAVELLERS camped on playing fields at Cottingley are facing legal action from Bradford Council if they fail to leave the site.
About half a dozen caravans, with associated vehicles, turned up on the site in a move which provoked the authority to start legal proceedings
A second encampment in the city is also the subject of separate legal action from the local authority, it has been confirmed.
The Council was alerted to problems with Travellers who have set up an unauthorised encampment at playing fields off New Road in recent days.
read more...
Monday, 30 June 2014
Travellers Arrive On Gresham Sports Park - Nottinghamshire
From the West Bridgford Wire
Travellers have moved on to a playing field in West Bridgford. See pictures.
Around 13 caravans were parked up on Thursday on a field next to Gresham Sports Park, which is run by Rushcliffe Borough Council.
It is not known when they moved there but several families and dogs could be seen on the site.
A legal summons from Rushcliffe Borough Council – dated June 27 – had been nailed to the gatepost.
read more...
Travellers have moved on to a playing field in West Bridgford. See pictures.
Around 13 caravans were parked up on Thursday on a field next to Gresham Sports Park, which is run by Rushcliffe Borough Council.
It is not known when they moved there but several families and dogs could be seen on the site.
A legal summons from Rushcliffe Borough Council – dated June 27 – had been nailed to the gatepost.
read more...
Travellers leave Birchwood playing field after council takes court action - Lincolnshire
From the Lincolnshire Echo
A group of Travellers who set up camp on a Birchwood playing field have moved on after the city council took legal action.
The illegal encampment near the Birchwood Leisure Centre caused the Birchwood Colts junior football team to cancel a training session.
But City of Lincoln Council officials have confirmed that the court proceedings they launched last Wednesday led to the caravans leaving at the weekend.
read more...
A group of Travellers who set up camp on a Birchwood playing field have moved on after the city council took legal action.
The illegal encampment near the Birchwood Leisure Centre caused the Birchwood Colts junior football team to cancel a training session.
But City of Lincoln Council officials have confirmed that the court proceedings they launched last Wednesday led to the caravans leaving at the weekend.
read more...
Worries after Travellers set up camp near Maryfield reservoir - Dundee
From the Courier
Worries have been expressed over travelling people setting up an illegal camp next to a dangerous dilapidated building in Dundee.
The Travellers are understood to have moved on to Scottish Water’s Maryfield site off Stobsmuir Road some time on Thursday.
Questions are being asked about how they managed to drive their vehicles on to the land as the gate guarding the property had previously been locked.
read more...
Worries have been expressed over travelling people setting up an illegal camp next to a dangerous dilapidated building in Dundee.
The Travellers are understood to have moved on to Scottish Water’s Maryfield site off Stobsmuir Road some time on Thursday.
Questions are being asked about how they managed to drive their vehicles on to the land as the gate guarding the property had previously been locked.
read more...
Travellers served notice to quit playfield in Stonehouse - Gloucestershire
From the Gloucester
TRAVELLERS who have set up camp on a playing field in Stonehouse have been issued with a notice to quit after multiple complaints from neighbours.
Four caravans moved onto the land in Stagholt Lane off Gloucester Road late on Friday night.
Over the weekend residents have complained about noise nuisance and litter being thrown on nearby allotments.
read more...
see also: The Stroud News and Journal - Travellers move onto playing fields in Stonehouse
TRAVELLERS who have set up camp on a playing field in Stonehouse have been issued with a notice to quit after multiple complaints from neighbours.
Four caravans moved onto the land in Stagholt Lane off Gloucester Road late on Friday night.
Over the weekend residents have complained about noise nuisance and litter being thrown on nearby allotments.
read more...
see also: The Stroud News and Journal - Travellers move onto playing fields in Stonehouse
Potential Gypsy site in Stockton suburb is withdrawn from controversial shortlist - County Durham
From the Gazette Live
A controversial shortlist of sites potentially suitable for Gypsy and Traveller families in Stockton has been reduced from six to five.
One potential site in the leafy suburb of Hartburn has now been removed after the owner changed his mind.
As reported, hundreds of people have written to Stockton Council objecting over its proposals which initially identified six locations to house a total of 26 traveller pitches.
Sites included Yarm Back Lane, Hartburn; Frederick Street in Stockton town centre; Eltham Crescent in Thornaby; land between Bowesfield Crescent and the River Tees, Stockton; and Mill Lane, Billingham.
read more...
A controversial shortlist of sites potentially suitable for Gypsy and Traveller families in Stockton has been reduced from six to five.
One potential site in the leafy suburb of Hartburn has now been removed after the owner changed his mind.
As reported, hundreds of people have written to Stockton Council objecting over its proposals which initially identified six locations to house a total of 26 traveller pitches.
Sites included Yarm Back Lane, Hartburn; Frederick Street in Stockton town centre; Eltham Crescent in Thornaby; land between Bowesfield Crescent and the River Tees, Stockton; and Mill Lane, Billingham.
read more...
Travellers remain on West Bridgford playing field despite council warning - Nottinghamshire
From the Nottingham Post
Travellers remained on a playing field in West Bridgford today in spite of a council asking them to move on.
Rushcliffe Borough Council has said it will start legal proceedings to get the group to move off the field next to Gresham Sports Park, which it runs.
This afternoon about 13 caravans remained at the site. It is not known when they moved there. They refused to answer any questions posed by the Post.
read more...
Travellers remained on a playing field in West Bridgford today in spite of a council asking them to move on.
Rushcliffe Borough Council has said it will start legal proceedings to get the group to move off the field next to Gresham Sports Park, which it runs.
This afternoon about 13 caravans remained at the site. It is not known when they moved there. They refused to answer any questions posed by the Post.
read more...
Travellers set up camp on Barrett's Recreational Ground in Grimsby - Lincolnshire
From the Grimsby Telegraph
A group of Travellers have set up camp on land off Weelsby Road in Grimsby.
Six caravans and a number of other vehicles have moved on to the Barrett’s Recreational Ground.
The Grimsby Telegraph also understands that a separate group have been spotted in the lay-by between Healing and Great Coates.
It comes after a group of Travellers who had set up camp on Grimsby’s Scartho Top moved on last week.
read more...
A group of Travellers have set up camp on land off Weelsby Road in Grimsby.
Six caravans and a number of other vehicles have moved on to the Barrett’s Recreational Ground.
The Grimsby Telegraph also understands that a separate group have been spotted in the lay-by between Healing and Great Coates.
It comes after a group of Travellers who had set up camp on Grimsby’s Scartho Top moved on last week.
read more...
First Irish Traveller to compete in Miss Ireland competition
From the Independent.ie
The daughter of the late musician Pecker Dunne will be the first Irish Traveller to compete in the Miss Ireland competition.
The Killimer model hasn't experienced any discrimination about her Traveller background while competing.
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"It comes up in conversation sometimes, but I think it's a positive thing for most people to see someone put on a platform, who would normally be associated with a particular, stereotypical image," she said.
read more...
The daughter of the late musician Pecker Dunne will be the first Irish Traveller to compete in the Miss Ireland competition.
The Killimer model hasn't experienced any discrimination about her Traveller background while competing.
advertisement
"It comes up in conversation sometimes, but I think it's a positive thing for most people to see someone put on a platform, who would normally be associated with a particular, stereotypical image," she said.
read more...
Update on the Travellers on Dunstan Green, Thatcham - Berkshire
From Thatcham Town Council
There are currently seven caravans and nine cars on Dunstan Green; they have been issued with an unauthorised incursion code of conduct and the police have all the details of the vehicles. All Travellers should have left the site by 5pm today.
read more...
There are currently seven caravans and nine cars on Dunstan Green; they have been issued with an unauthorised incursion code of conduct and the police have all the details of the vehicles. All Travellers should have left the site by 5pm today.
read more...
Bartle Travellers site extension plan to be rejected - Lancashire
From Blog Preston
The continued use of fields as a temporary Travellers site is set to be rejected by Preston city council.
Planning officers have outlined their objections to land just south of the M55 near Bartle being used as a caravan park.
Situated near Rosemary Lane the refusal by the owners Mr J & S Lee to install a proper system for dealing with waste from the caravans means the city council’s planning committee are recommended to reject the application.
They had applied for the Rosemary Lane site to be given another two years while the consultation on finding permanent Traveller sites across Preston, Chorley and South Ribble continues.
read more...
The continued use of fields as a temporary Travellers site is set to be rejected by Preston city council.
Planning officers have outlined their objections to land just south of the M55 near Bartle being used as a caravan park.
Situated near Rosemary Lane the refusal by the owners Mr J & S Lee to install a proper system for dealing with waste from the caravans means the city council’s planning committee are recommended to reject the application.
They had applied for the Rosemary Lane site to be given another two years while the consultation on finding permanent Traveller sites across Preston, Chorley and South Ribble continues.
read more...
Mayor takes action to prevent return of Travellers - Gloucestershire
From the Bradley Stoke Journal
Bradley Stoke Town Council has confirmed that it has installed a number of wooden posts in an attempt to to prevent further access to a site alongside Bradley Way, where a group of Travellers recently established an unauthorised encampment.
read more...
Bradley Stoke Town Council has confirmed that it has installed a number of wooden posts in an attempt to to prevent further access to a site alongside Bradley Way, where a group of Travellers recently established an unauthorised encampment.
read more...
Names up in Lights as catwalk queens - Lancashire
From the Lancaster Guardian
Young women from the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community transformed into icons of the silver screen and took to the catwalk in Lancaster.
Teenagers aged 13-19 modelled their designs based on a cinematic theme at The Dukes theatre.
read more...
Young women from the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community transformed into icons of the silver screen and took to the catwalk in Lancaster.
Teenagers aged 13-19 modelled their designs based on a cinematic theme at The Dukes theatre.
read more...
Sunday, 29 June 2014
Taxpayers left with cost and mess by Droitwich Travellers encampment - Worcestershire
From the Droitwich Standard
TAXPAYERS will have to foot the bill to clean up a Droitwich field and its surroundings which was left strewn with waste and soiled with human faeces.
Wychavon District Council bosses have said to return Saint George's Field, off Ombersley Way, to its former glory would cost a 'considerable amount'.
An illegal Travellers encampment occupied the site for almost two weeks, finally leaving on Tuesday (June 24) after the authority served them with a notice to leave.
read more...
TAXPAYERS will have to foot the bill to clean up a Droitwich field and its surroundings which was left strewn with waste and soiled with human faeces.
Wychavon District Council bosses have said to return Saint George's Field, off Ombersley Way, to its former glory would cost a 'considerable amount'.
An illegal Travellers encampment occupied the site for almost two weeks, finally leaving on Tuesday (June 24) after the authority served them with a notice to leave.
read more...
Derby Pride Park Travellers leave site - Derbyshire
From the BBC
A group of Travellers encamped on a Derby car park near Pride Park have started to move on after legal proceedings started.
About 40 caravans and other vehicles moved on to the site last weekend.
But following the issuing of a court order by the city council, the Travellers started moving out on Saturday afternoon.
read more...
A group of Travellers encamped on a Derby car park near Pride Park have started to move on after legal proceedings started.
About 40 caravans and other vehicles moved on to the site last weekend.
But following the issuing of a court order by the city council, the Travellers started moving out on Saturday afternoon.
read more...
Charity counselling services filling the gap for Travellers and pregnant women - Ireland
From the Journal.ie
TWO TARGETED COUNSELLING services have been shortlisted for social entrepreneurship awards for the work they are carrying out with Travellers and pregnant women.
Social Entrepreneurs Ireland have whittled over 200 entries for its annual funding down to a shortlist of 20, including Nurture and the Traveller Counselling Service.
read more...
TWO TARGETED COUNSELLING services have been shortlisted for social entrepreneurship awards for the work they are carrying out with Travellers and pregnant women.
Social Entrepreneurs Ireland have whittled over 200 entries for its annual funding down to a shortlist of 20, including Nurture and the Traveller Counselling Service.
read more...
Traveller plan goes to Secretary of State - Bedfordshire
From Luton Today
All consultation responses and supporting evidence regarding Central Bedfordshire Council’s Gypsy and Traveller Local Plan have been submitted to the Secretary of State this week.
The most recent consultation ran from 17 February to 31 March and received more than 1,556 responses (plus a petition against the site in Barton le Clay with approximately 2,800 signatures). All of these, along with responses received in previous formal consultations, will now be considered by an independent Planning Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State to determine whether the Plan is ‘sound’ and legally compliant.
read more...
All consultation responses and supporting evidence regarding Central Bedfordshire Council’s Gypsy and Traveller Local Plan have been submitted to the Secretary of State this week.
The most recent consultation ran from 17 February to 31 March and received more than 1,556 responses (plus a petition against the site in Barton le Clay with approximately 2,800 signatures). All of these, along with responses received in previous formal consultations, will now be considered by an independent Planning Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State to determine whether the Plan is ‘sound’ and legally compliant.
read more...
Saturday, 28 June 2014
Proposed Hartburn Gypsy site withdrawn - County Durham
From the Northern Echo
PEOPLE in a leafy area of Stockton have been told there won’t be a Gypsy caravan site built near their homes after all.
Hundreds of people across the borough have officially objected to the idea of a Gypsy site being built close by.
Stockton Borough Council has identified a need for 26 more Gypsy caravan pitches and has consulted the public about six possible sites.
That consultation period came to an end in March and the council is making further considerations before debating the issue at Cabinet next month.
read more...
PEOPLE in a leafy area of Stockton have been told there won’t be a Gypsy caravan site built near their homes after all.
Hundreds of people across the borough have officially objected to the idea of a Gypsy site being built close by.
Stockton Borough Council has identified a need for 26 more Gypsy caravan pitches and has consulted the public about six possible sites.
That consultation period came to an end in March and the council is making further considerations before debating the issue at Cabinet next month.
read more...
SF deputy leader is 'deeply ashamed' of Cork Travellers' living conditions - Irish Examiner - Ireland
From the Cork Hub
Sweeping reforms which will overhaul the way the authorities in Cork interact with the Traveller community have been finalised.
Junior minister Kathleen Lynch confirmed last night that the package of measures, prepared by former south Co Dublin manager Joe Horan, were completed yesterday following five months of research and interviews.
The announcement came just hours after Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald said she has seen better conditions in prisons following her visit to the overcrowded Spring Lane halting site on the city’s northside.
read more...
Sweeping reforms which will overhaul the way the authorities in Cork interact with the Traveller community have been finalised.
Junior minister Kathleen Lynch confirmed last night that the package of measures, prepared by former south Co Dublin manager Joe Horan, were completed yesterday following five months of research and interviews.
The announcement came just hours after Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald said she has seen better conditions in prisons following her visit to the overcrowded Spring Lane halting site on the city’s northside.
read more...
Travellers move on to Rottingdean park - Sussex
From the Argus
TRAVELLERS moved on to a popular park at noon today.
A total of 24 vehicles arrived at Rottingdean Recreation Ground, to the north of Rottingdean village, after Travellers left land in Pyecombe.
Simon Kirby, Conservative MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven (pictured), called on the police and Brighton and Hove City Council to move the Travellers on.
read more...
TRAVELLERS moved on to a popular park at noon today.
A total of 24 vehicles arrived at Rottingdean Recreation Ground, to the north of Rottingdean village, after Travellers left land in Pyecombe.
Simon Kirby, Conservative MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven (pictured), called on the police and Brighton and Hove City Council to move the Travellers on.
read more...
City council to search for Travellers' site in Cambridge - Cambridgeshire
From the Cambridge News
The new administration at the Guildhall has signalled it will revive the search for a travellers’ site in Cambridge.
Previous attempts to find pitches in the city were abandoned after no suitable plots were found, but the Labour executive wants to take another look at the issue.
read more...
The new administration at the Guildhall has signalled it will revive the search for a travellers’ site in Cambridge.
Previous attempts to find pitches in the city were abandoned after no suitable plots were found, but the Labour executive wants to take another look at the issue.
read more...
Travellers move on to field near Forest training ground and city school - Nottinghamshire
From the Nottingham Post
Travellers have moved on to a playing field in West Bridgford.
Around 13 caravans were parked up yesterday on a field next to Gresham Sports Park, which is run by Rushcliffe Borough Council.
read more...
Travellers have moved on to a playing field in West Bridgford.
Around 13 caravans were parked up yesterday on a field next to Gresham Sports Park, which is run by Rushcliffe Borough Council.
read more...
Gypsy caravans set up camp at entrance to Chesterton tourist attraction - Staffordshire
From the Sentinel
A CONVOY of Gypsy caravans has set up camp at the entrance to a popular tourist attraction – just months after Travellers were evicted from the same spot.
The vehicles parked up at Apedale Heritage Centre, in Loomer Road, Chesterton.
read more...
A CONVOY of Gypsy caravans has set up camp at the entrance to a popular tourist attraction – just months after Travellers were evicted from the same spot.
The vehicles parked up at Apedale Heritage Centre, in Loomer Road, Chesterton.
read more...
24 pitches planned at Gypsy Traveller site - Lincolnshire
From the Scunthorpe Telegraph
A planning application seeking approval for Traveller caravan pitches and utility blocks is now under consideration.
Approval is being sought for the change of use of land for six permanent Gypsy/Traveller residential caravan pitches and four transit caravan pitches, with a total of 24 pitches on the site at Westrum Lane, Brigg.
read more...
A planning application seeking approval for Traveller caravan pitches and utility blocks is now under consideration.
Approval is being sought for the change of use of land for six permanent Gypsy/Traveller residential caravan pitches and four transit caravan pitches, with a total of 24 pitches on the site at Westrum Lane, Brigg.
read more...
Planners give permission for 20 pitch extension to Neasham Road Gypsy site - County Durham
From the Northern Echo
AN extension to a council-run Gypsy site has been agreed by planning officers after no objections were received to the plans.
Darlington Borough Council announced plans to create an extra 20 pitches at the Neasham Road Gypsy site last year in order to meet an additional need for Gypsy and traveller accommodation in the town.
Using a £1.8m grant from the Homes and Communities Agency, the Neasham Road site will be extended into a field currently being used for agricultural use, with access from the existing drive.
The council has made a commitment to provide 35 extra Gypsy and Traveller pitches in the town by 2016.
The extension of the Neasham Road site, which is expected to be complete by early next year, was agreed by councillors in the hope of meeting that target.
read more...
AN extension to a council-run Gypsy site has been agreed by planning officers after no objections were received to the plans.
Darlington Borough Council announced plans to create an extra 20 pitches at the Neasham Road Gypsy site last year in order to meet an additional need for Gypsy and traveller accommodation in the town.
Using a £1.8m grant from the Homes and Communities Agency, the Neasham Road site will be extended into a field currently being used for agricultural use, with access from the existing drive.
The council has made a commitment to provide 35 extra Gypsy and Traveller pitches in the town by 2016.
The extension of the Neasham Road site, which is expected to be complete by early next year, was agreed by councillors in the hope of meeting that target.
read more...
Friday, 27 June 2014
Travellers move onto former Staffordshire stadium site
From the Express and Star
Councillors claim a padlocked gate was broken to gain entry to Cannock Stadium off Pye Green Road in Hednesford.
Around 50 caravans appeared at the site yesterday morning and it is believed to be the same group that parked up on a field off Bee Lane, in Fordhouses next to Elston Hall Primary School – forcing staff to cancel sports day.
read more...
Councillors claim a padlocked gate was broken to gain entry to Cannock Stadium off Pye Green Road in Hednesford.
Around 50 caravans appeared at the site yesterday morning and it is believed to be the same group that parked up on a field off Bee Lane, in Fordhouses next to Elston Hall Primary School – forcing staff to cancel sports day.
read more...
County MP says Travellers are "making a mockery" out of Worcestershire
From the Worcester News
TOO many Travellers are coming to Worcestershire and "making a mockery" of the county, according to an MP.
Sir Peter Luff says he is "deeply concerned" about the number of times Travellers are exploiting loopholes in the law and targeting parts of the county.
The Conservative, who represents Mid-Worcestershire, says areas like the Berry Hill industrial estate in Droitwich and Ombersley Way are used too often as temporary locations despite concerns about the clean-up costs, safety of the Travellers and security of nearby businesses.
read more...
TOO many Travellers are coming to Worcestershire and "making a mockery" of the county, according to an MP.
Sir Peter Luff says he is "deeply concerned" about the number of times Travellers are exploiting loopholes in the law and targeting parts of the county.
The Conservative, who represents Mid-Worcestershire, says areas like the Berry Hill industrial estate in Droitwich and Ombersley Way are used too often as temporary locations despite concerns about the clean-up costs, safety of the Travellers and security of nearby businesses.
read more...
Travellers move on from Scartho Top - Lincolnshire
From the Grimsby Telegraph
The group of Travellers who had set up camp on Grimsby's Scartho Top have moved on.
As reported, the group of four to five vans arrived on the land off Matthew Telford Park, adjacent to the hospital gate, on Sunday.
North East Lincolnshire Council yesterday served notice on the Travellers, ordering them to move on or appear before Grimsby Magistrates this morning.
However, the group moved on before the hearing took place.
read more...
The group of Travellers who had set up camp on Grimsby's Scartho Top have moved on.
As reported, the group of four to five vans arrived on the land off Matthew Telford Park, adjacent to the hospital gate, on Sunday.
North East Lincolnshire Council yesterday served notice on the Travellers, ordering them to move on or appear before Grimsby Magistrates this morning.
However, the group moved on before the hearing took place.
read more...
Council applies to have Travellers evicted - Somerset
From Yeovil News
COURT proceedings are being taken against a group of Travellers illegally camped on council-owned land in Yeovil.
South Somerset District Council has confirmed today (Friday, June 27, 2014) that it has applied to the courts to evict the Travellers from a site in Goldcroft.
read more...
COURT proceedings are being taken against a group of Travellers illegally camped on council-owned land in Yeovil.
South Somerset District Council has confirmed today (Friday, June 27, 2014) that it has applied to the courts to evict the Travellers from a site in Goldcroft.
read more...
Ten more caravans recommended to get planning permission at Smithy Fen Travellers' site in Cottenham - Cambridgeshire
From Cambridge News
Planning permission should be granted for up to 10 more caravans on Smithy Fen Travellers’ site, council officials have said.
The “predominantly retrospective” application for five plots on Pine Lane in Cottenham is recommended for approval by South Cambridgeshire District Council’s planning committee.
read more...
Planning permission should be granted for up to 10 more caravans on Smithy Fen Travellers’ site, council officials have said.
The “predominantly retrospective” application for five plots on Pine Lane in Cottenham is recommended for approval by South Cambridgeshire District Council’s planning committee.
read more...
Travellers on the move - Somerset
From the Nailsea, Clevedon and Portishead Times
TRAVELLERS evicted from a Clevedon playing field have moved on to a set of rugby pitches in the town. The group, with about four caravans and a number of other vehicles, were first spotted on the playing fields off Strode Road on June 17 and were later served an eviction notice by North Somerset Council.
read more...
TRAVELLERS evicted from a Clevedon playing field have moved on to a set of rugby pitches in the town. The group, with about four caravans and a number of other vehicles, were first spotted on the playing fields off Strode Road on June 17 and were later served an eviction notice by North Somerset Council.
read more...
Travellers in Newark: Police criticised over lack of action about anti-social behaviour - Nottinghamshire
From the Newark Advertiser
The police have been accused of turning a blind eye to anti-social behaviour by members of the travelling community who were camped illegally in Newark.
Travellers twice settled on Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Lincoln Road playing fields.
read more...
The police have been accused of turning a blind eye to anti-social behaviour by members of the travelling community who were camped illegally in Newark.
Travellers twice settled on Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Lincoln Road playing fields.
read more...
Travellers moved on after setting up camp in Viables - Hampshire
From the Gazette
TRAVELLERS who set up a camp at Viables Craft Centre, in The Harrow Way, on Tuesday have been moved on by police.
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council confirmed that the group of eight caravans were asked to leave by the police the same day.
read more...
TRAVELLERS who set up a camp at Viables Craft Centre, in The Harrow Way, on Tuesday have been moved on by police.
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council confirmed that the group of eight caravans were asked to leave by the police the same day.
read more...
Traveller on Pride Park warns: 'There will be loads more Gypsies coming' - Derbyshire
From the Derby Telegraph
TRAVELLERS at a Pride Park car park say they do not plan to move soon and that people ought to expect “more of the same” in the future.
At 5.30pm yesterday there were 21 caravans across the site, owned by Derby City Council, along with a number of cars and vans.
read more...
see also: The Derby Telegraph - Travellers still refusing to move from Pride Park - what should be done?
TRAVELLERS at a Pride Park car park say they do not plan to move soon and that people ought to expect “more of the same” in the future.
At 5.30pm yesterday there were 21 caravans across the site, owned by Derby City Council, along with a number of cars and vans.
read more...
see also: The Derby Telegraph - Travellers still refusing to move from Pride Park - what should be done?
Thursday, 26 June 2014
Travellers return to Second Avenue in Harlow - Essex
From the Your Harlow
WE ARE sure when Your Harlow started on July 1st, 2013 that we started with Travellers on Second Avenue. Well sure enough, we will close our first year with the news that travellers have returned to Second Avenue.
The whole year has been punctuated with reports of Travellers encamped illegally.
Harlow Council has been working to resolve the ongoing situation with illegal traveller encampments in the town.
read more...
WE ARE sure when Your Harlow started on July 1st, 2013 that we started with Travellers on Second Avenue. Well sure enough, we will close our first year with the news that travellers have returned to Second Avenue.
The whole year has been punctuated with reports of Travellers encamped illegally.
Harlow Council has been working to resolve the ongoing situation with illegal traveller encampments in the town.
read more...
Luton council begins eviction process against Pope's Meadow Travellers - Bedfordshire
From Luton On Sunday
LUTON council have begun legal proceedings against a group of Travellers who have set up camp in a park.
Around 16 caravans appeared at around 10am this morning at Pope's Meadow in Old Bedford Road.
read more...
LUTON council have begun legal proceedings against a group of Travellers who have set up camp in a park.
Around 16 caravans appeared at around 10am this morning at Pope's Meadow in Old Bedford Road.
read more...
Voice of Ireland star launches Traveller Pride Week for Galway - Ireland
From the Galway Advertiser
Voice of Ireland star Kelly Mongan this week launched Galway Traveller Pride Week in Ballinasloe Library.
Traveller Pride Week will run until Friday June 27, and celebrates the contribution Travellers make to their communities, in the fields of business, sport, and art, as well as their history and culture.
It will also discuss themes like discrimination, education, and employment.
Traveller Pride Week 2014 was organised by the County Galway Traveller Interagency Group.
The week was jointly launched with the exhibition ‘‘Whiden Toie: the Road to Recognition and Rights’’, an interactive event highlighting some of the milestones over the last 20 years since the Galway Traveller Movement was founded in 1994. The exhibition will be on display in the Ballinasloe Library until Monday July 7.
read more...
Voice of Ireland star Kelly Mongan this week launched Galway Traveller Pride Week in Ballinasloe Library.
Traveller Pride Week will run until Friday June 27, and celebrates the contribution Travellers make to their communities, in the fields of business, sport, and art, as well as their history and culture.
It will also discuss themes like discrimination, education, and employment.
Traveller Pride Week 2014 was organised by the County Galway Traveller Interagency Group.
The week was jointly launched with the exhibition ‘‘Whiden Toie: the Road to Recognition and Rights’’, an interactive event highlighting some of the milestones over the last 20 years since the Galway Traveller Movement was founded in 1994. The exhibition will be on display in the Ballinasloe Library until Monday July 7.
read more...
Harlow Council continue legal proceedings against Travellers - Essex
From the Harlow Star
HARLOW council have spoken of their frustration by the ongoing illegal traveller encampments in the town.
The local authority has been working to resolve the ongoing situation. A number of caravans are currently parked up on Tithelands playing field in Katherines, which is land owned by Harlow Council.
read more...
HARLOW council have spoken of their frustration by the ongoing illegal traveller encampments in the town.
The local authority has been working to resolve the ongoing situation. A number of caravans are currently parked up on Tithelands playing field in Katherines, which is land owned by Harlow Council.
read more...
Council's court bid to evict Travellers from old Riley College site in west Hull - Yorkshire
From the Hull Daly Mail
Hull City Council is seeking a court order to have Travellers removed from a site off Anlaby Road.
About a dozen caravans moved on to the old Riley College site, in Parkfield Drive, yesterday. Half their number have since left and the council will go to the courts tomorrow to obtain an order for the removal of those who remain.
read more...
Hull City Council is seeking a court order to have Travellers removed from a site off Anlaby Road.
About a dozen caravans moved on to the old Riley College site, in Parkfield Drive, yesterday. Half their number have since left and the council will go to the courts tomorrow to obtain an order for the removal of those who remain.
read more...
Barrier built to keep out Travellers from unauthorised spot in Beaumont Leys, Leicester - Leicestershire
From the Leicester Mercury
About 500 metres of earthworks have been built along a Leicester road to try to stop Travellers returning to a spot where they have often set up unauthorised camps.
The obstruction, which stands about four feet high, has been piled up on the western side of Beaumont Leys Lane, Beaumont Leys, as a barrier to prevent Travellers moving their vehicles on to the grass verge.
The roadside spot has been popular with travellers for many years and the last group vacated it last week before city council highways officials moved in on Thursday to get to work.
read more...
About 500 metres of earthworks have been built along a Leicester road to try to stop Travellers returning to a spot where they have often set up unauthorised camps.
The obstruction, which stands about four feet high, has been piled up on the western side of Beaumont Leys Lane, Beaumont Leys, as a barrier to prevent Travellers moving their vehicles on to the grass verge.
The roadside spot has been popular with travellers for many years and the last group vacated it last week before city council highways officials moved in on Thursday to get to work.
read more...
School sports day postponed as Travellers move onto Wolverhampton playing fields - West Midlands
From the Express and Star
Elston Hall Primary School, in Wolverhampton, called off its sports day for its key stage two and early years pupils, which were due to take place yesterday and today.
The postponement is believed to be due to a group of Travellers who turned up on land off Bee Lane, in Fordhouses, next to the school.
read more...
see also: The BBC - Travellers force Elston Hall Primary sports day postponement
The Daily Mail - Primary school sports day cancelled as GYPSIES take over the playing fields and refuse to move
The Metro - School sports day cancelled after Travellers move onto playing fields
Elston Hall Primary School, in Wolverhampton, called off its sports day for its key stage two and early years pupils, which were due to take place yesterday and today.
The postponement is believed to be due to a group of Travellers who turned up on land off Bee Lane, in Fordhouses, next to the school.
read more...
see also: The BBC - Travellers force Elston Hall Primary sports day postponement
The Daily Mail - Primary school sports day cancelled as GYPSIES take over the playing fields and refuse to move
The Metro - School sports day cancelled after Travellers move onto playing fields
Residents seek action over crisis at halting site - Ireland
From the Irish Examiner
Travellers have called for urgent action to resolve serious health and safety issues at an overcrowded halting site which has been branded one of the worst in Ireland.
The residents of the Spring Lane halting site on Cork’s northside have also called for a full review of the city’s new Traveller Accommodation Plan 2014-2018 to deliver a long-term solution to their crisis situation.
In an historic first, they launched a manifesto yesterday which outlines the appalling conditions they have to ensure on the site, including dangerous electrics, and unsanitary conditions.
read more...
Travellers have called for urgent action to resolve serious health and safety issues at an overcrowded halting site which has been branded one of the worst in Ireland.
The residents of the Spring Lane halting site on Cork’s northside have also called for a full review of the city’s new Traveller Accommodation Plan 2014-2018 to deliver a long-term solution to their crisis situation.
In an historic first, they launched a manifesto yesterday which outlines the appalling conditions they have to ensure on the site, including dangerous electrics, and unsanitary conditions.
read more...
Derby Pride Park Travellers face eviction - Derbyshire
From the BBC
Legal proceedings have been started in a bid to remove Travellers encamped on a busy Derby car park.
About 40 caravans and other vehicles moved onto the Park and Ride site at Pride Park at the weekend.
The city council said it had served a court order but admitted it could take up to three weeks if the Travellers did not co-operate.
read more...
Legal proceedings have been started in a bid to remove Travellers encamped on a busy Derby car park.
About 40 caravans and other vehicles moved onto the Park and Ride site at Pride Park at the weekend.
The city council said it had served a court order but admitted it could take up to three weeks if the Travellers did not co-operate.
read more...
Taunton Gateway Park & Ride open again as Travellers move on - Somerset
From the Western Daily Press
Taunton Gateway Park & Ride will be open for business as usual today following the departure of Travellers who had illegally occupied the site yesterday.
The Travellers left the site peacefully at around 8pm No significant clean is was required.
There is a security presence on the site today to ensure there are no further incidents and to reassure users of the service.
read more...
Taunton Gateway Park & Ride will be open for business as usual today following the departure of Travellers who had illegally occupied the site yesterday.
The Travellers left the site peacefully at around 8pm No significant clean is was required.
There is a security presence on the site today to ensure there are no further incidents and to reassure users of the service.
read more...
Kingsteignton playing field Travellers move on - Devon
From the Herald Express
TRAVELLERS who moved into a playing field in Kingsteignton have moved on 'of their own accord'.
They set up at Abbrook, the former WBB social club grounds, last Monday and were on site for five days.
Landowners Sibelco attempted to talk to them and asked them to leave and the company also upped security at the venue.
read more...
TRAVELLERS who moved into a playing field in Kingsteignton have moved on 'of their own accord'.
They set up at Abbrook, the former WBB social club grounds, last Monday and were on site for five days.
Landowners Sibelco attempted to talk to them and asked them to leave and the company also upped security at the venue.
read more...
Over 4,000 people respond to Central Bedfordshire Council's plan for Gypsy sites - including 2,800 from Barton le Clay
From Bedford On Sunday
MORE than 4,000 people responded to a council's consultation on plans for Gypsy and Traveller sites in their area.
All consultation responses and supporting evidence regarding Central Bedfordshire Council’s Gypsy and Traveller local plan have been submitted to the Secretary of State this week.
The most recent consultation ran from February 17 until March 31 and received more than 1,556 responses, plus a petition against a site in Barton le Clay containing approximately 2,800 signatures.
All of these, along with responses received in previous formal consultations, will now be considered by an independent planning inspector appointed by the Secretary of State to determine whether the plan is ‘sound’ and legally compliant.
read more...
MORE than 4,000 people responded to a council's consultation on plans for Gypsy and Traveller sites in their area.
All consultation responses and supporting evidence regarding Central Bedfordshire Council’s Gypsy and Traveller local plan have been submitted to the Secretary of State this week.
The most recent consultation ran from February 17 until March 31 and received more than 1,556 responses, plus a petition against a site in Barton le Clay containing approximately 2,800 signatures.
All of these, along with responses received in previous formal consultations, will now be considered by an independent planning inspector appointed by the Secretary of State to determine whether the plan is ‘sound’ and legally compliant.
read more...
Wednesday, 25 June 2014
Irish Travellers set up camp in Marlborough's Waitrose car park - Wiltshire
From the Gazette and Herald
Irish Travellers have set up camp in the Waitrose car park in Marlborough.
Police were told by a member of the public that gipsies had moved onto land in George Lane and Hillers Lane yesterday.
A second group of Travellers arrived and set up an illegal camp in the same area this morning.
There are four caravans on the land, which have all been served with notices asking them to leave.
read more...
Irish Travellers have set up camp in the Waitrose car park in Marlborough.
Police were told by a member of the public that gipsies had moved onto land in George Lane and Hillers Lane yesterday.
A second group of Travellers arrived and set up an illegal camp in the same area this morning.
There are four caravans on the land, which have all been served with notices asking them to leave.
read more...
Avonmouth residents 'sick and tired' of illegal Travellers' sites - Somerset
From the Bristol Post
PEOPLE in Avonmouth say they are "sick and tired" of illegal Travellers' sites outside their homes - and are urging the council to change the rules on evicting them.
A group of Travellers have been living under the M5 bridge in Avonmouth since March, and are in the middle of a legal battle.
The Travellers want Bristol City Council to find them a permanent pitch in nearby Kingsweston Lane.
And there is currently a high court injunction preventing the city council removing their encampment until the welfare of the residents has been fully considered.
The High Court is expected to deliver a verdict about the Travellers' future this week.
read more...
PEOPLE in Avonmouth say they are "sick and tired" of illegal Travellers' sites outside their homes - and are urging the council to change the rules on evicting them.
A group of Travellers have been living under the M5 bridge in Avonmouth since March, and are in the middle of a legal battle.
The Travellers want Bristol City Council to find them a permanent pitch in nearby Kingsweston Lane.
And there is currently a high court injunction preventing the city council removing their encampment until the welfare of the residents has been fully considered.
The High Court is expected to deliver a verdict about the Travellers' future this week.
read more...
Council takes legal action to evict Travellers - Somerset
From the Bristol Post
LEGAL action is being taken to move on a group of Travellers who have set up an illegal camp in Clevedon.
A group of Travellers set up temporary home on playing fields at Strode Road last week and have remained on site ever since, despite requests from North Somerset Council to leave.
The group, made up of around five caravans along with camper vans and various trucks and cars, were issued with a notice by the authority to leave on Friday.
read more...
LEGAL action is being taken to move on a group of Travellers who have set up an illegal camp in Clevedon.
A group of Travellers set up temporary home on playing fields at Strode Road last week and have remained on site ever since, despite requests from North Somerset Council to leave.
The group, made up of around five caravans along with camper vans and various trucks and cars, were issued with a notice by the authority to leave on Friday.
read more...
Travellers criticised after camping on ERF Way - Cheshire
From the Middlewich Guardian
A GROUP of Travellers has been criticised after they spent several days parked along a Middlewich road.
ERF Way, off Pochin Way – a well know spot for Travellers – has been left with damaged wooden barriers, horse manure on the pavement and a pile of rubbish.
Frank Seery, an ex-policeman who now works in Middlewich, said: “They came and made a mess of the place and then just left and nothing is done about it.
A GROUP of Travellers has been criticised after they spent several days parked along a Middlewich road.
ERF Way, off Pochin Way – a well know spot for Travellers – has been left with damaged wooden barriers, horse manure on the pavement and a pile of rubbish.
Frank Seery, an ex-policeman who now works in Middlewich, said: “They came and made a mess of the place and then just left and nothing is done about it.
Travellers set up at Victoria Park in Arbroath - Angus
From the Courier
Travellers have turned up at an Arbroath beauty spot.
A year on from a similar small encampment, caravans arrived on Tuesday night at the north end of Victoria Park.
Angus Council is understood to be monitoring the situation.
Last June, Travellers spent around a week at the popular beauty spot, before moving on to another site near the Gayfield Park home of Arbroath FC and then out of the town shortly after.
read more...
Travellers have turned up at an Arbroath beauty spot.
A year on from a similar small encampment, caravans arrived on Tuesday night at the north end of Victoria Park.
Angus Council is understood to be monitoring the situation.
Last June, Travellers spent around a week at the popular beauty spot, before moving on to another site near the Gayfield Park home of Arbroath FC and then out of the town shortly after.
read more...
Encampment of Travellers park by Houndstone Business Park and NHS Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group head quarters off Lufton Way, Yeovil - police aware - Somerset
From the Western Gazette
POLICE are monitoring a Traveller encampment which has parked in Yeovil.
A cluster of caravans and cars has parked on grass off Lufton Way, on the corner of Warrior Avenue near the Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group’s headquarters at Wynford House.
A spokeswoman from Avon and Somerset Police said the force was notified of the encampment at 7pm on Saturday, June 21, which is still in place this morning.
read more...
POLICE are monitoring a Traveller encampment which has parked in Yeovil.
A cluster of caravans and cars has parked on grass off Lufton Way, on the corner of Warrior Avenue near the Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group’s headquarters at Wynford House.
A spokeswoman from Avon and Somerset Police said the force was notified of the encampment at 7pm on Saturday, June 21, which is still in place this morning.
read more...
Irish Travellers take over park and ride and cause rush hour chaos - Somerset
From the Western Morning News
Travellers have set up camp at a council park and ride site near the M5, causing travel chaos in Taunton.
Somerset County Council has been forced to close the Taunton Gateway car park after up to six caravans were parked last night.
The group, who arrived at around 7pm as the facility was closing, were driving cars with Irish registration plates.
Individuals have been able to come and go freely but the car park, which is designed to relieve congestion in the city, some three miles away, is closed to commuters because of health and safety fears.
read more...
see also: The BBC - Travellers close Taunton Gateway park-and-ride site
The Western Daily Press - Travellers cause traffic chaos by setting up camp at a park and ride near M5 in Somerset
The Somerset County Gazette - Henlade park and ride closed due to "safety concerns" as Travellers move on to site
Travellers have set up camp at a council park and ride site near the M5, causing travel chaos in Taunton.
Somerset County Council has been forced to close the Taunton Gateway car park after up to six caravans were parked last night.
The group, who arrived at around 7pm as the facility was closing, were driving cars with Irish registration plates.
Individuals have been able to come and go freely but the car park, which is designed to relieve congestion in the city, some three miles away, is closed to commuters because of health and safety fears.
read more...
see also: The BBC - Travellers close Taunton Gateway park-and-ride site
The Western Daily Press - Travellers cause traffic chaos by setting up camp at a park and ride near M5 in Somerset
The Somerset County Gazette - Henlade park and ride closed due to "safety concerns" as Travellers move on to site
Police serve notice on Wolverhampton Travellers - West Midlands
From the Express and Star
The Travellers moved onto the public parkland in Fowlers Park, in Park Village, on Wednesday.
The group had agreed with council officers to move from the site by yesterday, but this morning they were still camped on the field.
Paul Brown, a spokesman for Wolverhampton City Council, said: "We had been down to the site on Friday and agreed that they would move by yesterday but they haven't.
"We have been down again with police and they have served a notice that they are to leave the site by midday on Wednesday.
"We will be going down again with the police tomorrow and if they have still not move then they will face further action."
read more...
The Travellers moved onto the public parkland in Fowlers Park, in Park Village, on Wednesday.
The group had agreed with council officers to move from the site by yesterday, but this morning they were still camped on the field.
Paul Brown, a spokesman for Wolverhampton City Council, said: "We had been down to the site on Friday and agreed that they would move by yesterday but they haven't.
"We have been down again with police and they have served a notice that they are to leave the site by midday on Wednesday.
"We will be going down again with the police tomorrow and if they have still not move then they will face further action."
read more...
Tuesday, 24 June 2014
Police move Travellers from Capel Road Car Park and the football pitches on Wanstead Flats - London
From the Wanstead Guardian
Travellers have been moved on by police after a toal of 15 caravans were parked in the Wanstead Flats yesterday.
Police confirmed they were alerted to the camp at 3.30pm on Wanstead Flats yesterday afternoon, on the football pitches in Capel Road and in Capel Road Car Park.
read more...
Travellers have been moved on by police after a toal of 15 caravans were parked in the Wanstead Flats yesterday.
Police confirmed they were alerted to the camp at 3.30pm on Wanstead Flats yesterday afternoon, on the football pitches in Capel Road and in Capel Road Car Park.
read more...
Travellers take over two Skegness car parks - Lincolnshire
From the Lincolnshire Echo
East Lindsey District Council is taking action against groups of travellers that have set up camp in two Skegness car parks
Motorhomes unlawfully moved onto North Parade and South Parade car parks this afternoon (June 24) of the seaside resort.
ELDC have been made aware of the Travellers and are now taking action to remove them.
read more...
East Lindsey District Council is taking action against groups of travellers that have set up camp in two Skegness car parks
Motorhomes unlawfully moved onto North Parade and South Parade car parks this afternoon (June 24) of the seaside resort.
ELDC have been made aware of the Travellers and are now taking action to remove them.
read more...
Travellers set up camp on Nepcote Green - Sussex
From the Worthing Herald
TRAVELLERS have entered Nepcote Green, in Findon.
Police were informed that a group of 11 vehicles had entered the green at 2.45pm. Officers are at the site liaising with Findon Parish Council and assessing the situation.
Judith Davies, chairman of Findon Village Hall, was at the green earlier this afternoon.
read more...
see also: The Argus - Nepcote field in Findon the latest site for Travellers
The Daily Mail - Victory for villagers as they chase Travellers off their green... but police warn them they could be charged with FALSE IMPRISONMENT during stand-off
The Worthing Herald - Travellers moved on by police
The Telegraph - How the Siege of Nepcote Green turned the tables on the Travellers
TRAVELLERS have entered Nepcote Green, in Findon.
Police were informed that a group of 11 vehicles had entered the green at 2.45pm. Officers are at the site liaising with Findon Parish Council and assessing the situation.
Judith Davies, chairman of Findon Village Hall, was at the green earlier this afternoon.
read more...
see also: The Argus - Nepcote field in Findon the latest site for Travellers
The Daily Mail - Victory for villagers as they chase Travellers off their green... but police warn them they could be charged with FALSE IMPRISONMENT during stand-off
The Worthing Herald - Travellers moved on by police
The Telegraph - How the Siege of Nepcote Green turned the tables on the Travellers
Felixstowe: Travellers leave Langer Park suddenly after two-day stay - Suffolk
From the Ipswich Star
Security arrangements at a park are to be reviewed after Travellers invaded it for a second successive year.
Around a dozen caravans, cars and trucks arrived in Felixstowe’s Langer Park over the weekend – but mysteriously left suddenly on Monday night just as council officers were starting the lengthy process to evict them.
Officials said the park had been locked but the lock was broken before the Travellers arrived. The same happened last year after the carnival.
read more...
Security arrangements at a park are to be reviewed after Travellers invaded it for a second successive year.
Around a dozen caravans, cars and trucks arrived in Felixstowe’s Langer Park over the weekend – but mysteriously left suddenly on Monday night just as council officers were starting the lengthy process to evict them.
Officials said the park had been locked but the lock was broken before the Travellers arrived. The same happened last year after the carnival.
read more...
Permanent travellers site given final go ahead - Sussex
From the Argus
The final clearance for a permanent Travellers site on the South Downs has been granted.
The Department for Communities and Local Government have confirmed that they will not be calling in a planning application for 12 permanent residential traveller pitches at Horsdean, Brighton.
The South Downs National Park Authority’s Planning Committee resolved to grant permission on 13 February and today the Secretary of State confirmed the site will be given the go-ahead following his scrutiny.
read more...
The final clearance for a permanent Travellers site on the South Downs has been granted.
The Department for Communities and Local Government have confirmed that they will not be calling in a planning application for 12 permanent residential traveller pitches at Horsdean, Brighton.
The South Downs National Park Authority’s Planning Committee resolved to grant permission on 13 February and today the Secretary of State confirmed the site will be given the go-ahead following his scrutiny.
read more...
Travellers begin second week of occupation - Gloucestershire
From the Bradley Stoke Journal
Travellers at an illegal encampment alongside Bradley Stoke Way have today begun their second week of occupation, despite being given 24 hours to leave the site on Tuesday last week.
Four caravans and a number of other vehicles moved onto the roadside verge near Primrose Bridge last Monday morning. They were joined by a fifth caravan a few days later.
Bradley Stoke town councillors were told last week that its was “anticipated that the caravans would move [off] either on Wednesday or Thursday,” but the predicted departure failed to materialise.
read more...
Travellers at an illegal encampment alongside Bradley Stoke Way have today begun their second week of occupation, despite being given 24 hours to leave the site on Tuesday last week.
Four caravans and a number of other vehicles moved onto the roadside verge near Primrose Bridge last Monday morning. They were joined by a fifth caravan a few days later.
Bradley Stoke town councillors were told last week that its was “anticipated that the caravans would move [off] either on Wednesday or Thursday,” but the predicted departure failed to materialise.
read more...
Travellers set up camp at Monkwick, Colchester - Essex
From sites.google.com/site/colchesteressex/
This morning people who live on the Monkwick estate in Colchester of are waking up to a number of caravans which have appeared on the field adjacent to Mersea road and Queen Elizabeth way. According to some reports on Twitter, the Travellers broke part of the fence to gain access to the green area. This morning in appears that there are 12 caravans and a number of children are running around.
read more...
This morning people who live on the Monkwick estate in Colchester of are waking up to a number of caravans which have appeared on the field adjacent to Mersea road and Queen Elizabeth way. According to some reports on Twitter, the Travellers broke part of the fence to gain access to the green area. This morning in appears that there are 12 caravans and a number of children are running around.
read more...
Independent Brighton councillor challenges political parties over Travellers - Sussex
From Brighton and Hove News
Brighton and Hove’s sole Independent councillor has urged the three main parties to support her efforts to protect public parks from unauthorised Travellers’ camps.
Councillor Christina Summers hopes to submit a motion to the next meeting of Brighton and Hove City Council but needs a seconder. A draft of the motion can be read here.
She is asking her fellow 53 councillors – all of whom are either Green, Conservative or Labour – to back her.
Her motion asks council chief executive Penny Thompson to write to the Sussex police and crime commissioner Katy Bourne.
read more at...
Brighton and Hove’s sole Independent councillor has urged the three main parties to support her efforts to protect public parks from unauthorised Travellers’ camps.
Councillor Christina Summers hopes to submit a motion to the next meeting of Brighton and Hove City Council but needs a seconder. A draft of the motion can be read here.
She is asking her fellow 53 councillors – all of whom are either Green, Conservative or Labour – to back her.
Her motion asks council chief executive Penny Thompson to write to the Sussex police and crime commissioner Katy Bourne.
read more at...
Monday, 23 June 2014
Travellers to unveil plan to resolve housing row - Ireland
From the Irish Examiner
Travellers living in one of Ireland’s worst halting sites have drafted their own plans to resolve what’s been branded a "humanitarian crisis".
Residents of the Spring Lane site on Cork’s northside will launch their ‘Spring Lane Manifesto’ at the Glen Community Resource Centre this Wednesday.
It will chart in stark detail the appalling conditions they face living on the overcrowded site, and will outline several proposed solutions they say would address the accommodation crisis quickly.
The document will be launched as part of Traveller Pride Week, and two days ahead of a visit to the site by Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald.
read more...
Travellers living in one of Ireland’s worst halting sites have drafted their own plans to resolve what’s been branded a "humanitarian crisis".
Residents of the Spring Lane site on Cork’s northside will launch their ‘Spring Lane Manifesto’ at the Glen Community Resource Centre this Wednesday.
It will chart in stark detail the appalling conditions they face living on the overcrowded site, and will outline several proposed solutions they say would address the accommodation crisis quickly.
The document will be launched as part of Traveller Pride Week, and two days ahead of a visit to the site by Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald.
read more...
Travellers on Scartho Top told to leave site - Lincolnshire
From the Grimsby Telegraph
ACTION is being taken by North East Lincolnshire Council to move on Travellers who have set up camp on Scartho Top.
As reported, around six vans arrived on the grassed area adjacent to the hospital gate, off Matthew Telford Park, last night.
An NELC spokesman said: “A small group of Travellers arrived on council-owned land near Ferriby Lane at Scartho Top on Sunday.
read more...
ACTION is being taken by North East Lincolnshire Council to move on Travellers who have set up camp on Scartho Top.
As reported, around six vans arrived on the grassed area adjacent to the hospital gate, off Matthew Telford Park, last night.
An NELC spokesman said: “A small group of Travellers arrived on council-owned land near Ferriby Lane at Scartho Top on Sunday.
read more...
Travellers move onto Pride Park car parks - Derbyshire
From the Derby Times
GYPSIES have poured onto two car parks near to Derby County’s iPro Stadium.
More than 40 caravans, vans and trucks piled onto bays to the right of DW Sports Fitness Club and outside the city’s new Velodrome building.
Some moved onto the sites on Saturday and the rest arrived yesterday.
read more...
GYPSIES have poured onto two car parks near to Derby County’s iPro Stadium.
More than 40 caravans, vans and trucks piled onto bays to the right of DW Sports Fitness Club and outside the city’s new Velodrome building.
Some moved onto the sites on Saturday and the rest arrived yesterday.
read more...
Victory for people power as site for Travellers refused - Hampshire
From the News
VICTORY is being claimed by residents who fought to stop a pony paddock being turned into a site for Travellers.
The council’s refusal to allow a Travellers’ site near Denmead brings to an end a year-long battle to stop the development, which was proposed behind the historic Chairmakers’ Arms off Forest Road.
The applicants wanted the land for eight mobile homes, eight touring caravans and eight day rooms.
read more...
VICTORY is being claimed by residents who fought to stop a pony paddock being turned into a site for Travellers.
The council’s refusal to allow a Travellers’ site near Denmead brings to an end a year-long battle to stop the development, which was proposed behind the historic Chairmakers’ Arms off Forest Road.
The applicants wanted the land for eight mobile homes, eight touring caravans and eight day rooms.
read more...
New DVD aiming to dispel myths about Travellers - Cheshire
From Chester First
SCHOOL children will be taught about Gypsies and Travellers in an attempt to stamp out “negative stereotypes”.
An interactive DVD has been developed by Cheshire West and Chester Council (CwaC) and the University of Chester to be used in classrooms across the borough.
Called Michael’s Story, it uses interactive drama to “develop children’s knowledge and understandings of Gypsy Traveller culture and lifestyles”.
read more...
SCHOOL children will be taught about Gypsies and Travellers in an attempt to stamp out “negative stereotypes”.
An interactive DVD has been developed by Cheshire West and Chester Council (CwaC) and the University of Chester to be used in classrooms across the borough.
Called Michael’s Story, it uses interactive drama to “develop children’s knowledge and understandings of Gypsy Traveller culture and lifestyles”.
read more...
No weekend bins or toilets for Plymouth Gypsy sites, declares council - Devon
From the Plymouth Herald
PLYMOUTH City Council has declared it will not provide bins and toilets for Gypsies or Travellers if they arrive at a site on the weekend.
During a cabinet meeting councillors voted unanimously to support the recommendation, proposed as part of a raft of measures for the management of Gypsy and Traveller Unauthorised Encampments.
Cabinet member, Councillor Chris Penberthy, said the recommendation was a “difficult one” to make, but said the extra cover would cost “tens of thousands” every year.
read more... http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/weekend-bins-toilets-Plymouth-Gypsy-sites/story-21277517-detail/story.html#aCv8q02AyXsJjP0M.99
PLYMOUTH City Council has declared it will not provide bins and toilets for Gypsies or Travellers if they arrive at a site on the weekend.
During a cabinet meeting councillors voted unanimously to support the recommendation, proposed as part of a raft of measures for the management of Gypsy and Traveller Unauthorised Encampments.
Cabinet member, Councillor Chris Penberthy, said the recommendation was a “difficult one” to make, but said the extra cover would cost “tens of thousands” every year.
read more... http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/weekend-bins-toilets-Plymouth-Gypsy-sites/story-21277517-detail/story.html#aCv8q02AyXsJjP0M.99
Traveller feels victimised following planning objections - Buckinghamshire
From the Bucks Free Press
A TRAVELLER said he feels victimised after a planning application for stables has received a number of objections.
David Curtis previously applied for planning permission in Marlow Road, Cadmore End for a Gypsy caravan site for nine pitches- five transit and four permanent.
This was refused by Wycombe District Council as it said it would "negatively impact on the special character and intrinsic landscape qualities of the Chilterns AONB and the rural amenity of the area generally."
Now Mr Curtis, who lives in Studley Green, has put in a planning application for a change of use of land to keep horses, build a stable block with improvements to existing access and the provision of a parking area.
But he has been surprised by the response of residents, who have objected to the proposals.
read more...
A TRAVELLER said he feels victimised after a planning application for stables has received a number of objections.
David Curtis previously applied for planning permission in Marlow Road, Cadmore End for a Gypsy caravan site for nine pitches- five transit and four permanent.
This was refused by Wycombe District Council as it said it would "negatively impact on the special character and intrinsic landscape qualities of the Chilterns AONB and the rural amenity of the area generally."
Now Mr Curtis, who lives in Studley Green, has put in a planning application for a change of use of land to keep horses, build a stable block with improvements to existing access and the provision of a parking area.
But he has been surprised by the response of residents, who have objected to the proposals.
read more...
Sunday, 22 June 2014
Time for Travellers to be recognised as an ethnic minority - Ireland
From the Irish Times
We’re sitting in a country hotel on the way back from a day in Knock. The owner comes over to our group to welcome us, asks how we’re getting on. We’re a group of eight women, mostly Travellers. They’re surprised, pleased: it’s not their usual experience.
One recalls how she couldn’t get a cup of coffee at a Traveller wedding because the hotel had ruled that no hot drinks would be served that day.
Another talks about her experience in her local shop: she walks in, there’s a queue of people waiting to be served, but immediately, a staff member approaches her, says “can I help you?” She knows that this isn’t an expression of concern, but of suspicion.
Small things, you might think, but not for Travellers, whose lives are daily corroded by the contempt so many of their fellow citizens feel for them. Or as Brigid Quilligan, director of the Irish Traveller Movement, told a recent Oireachtas Committee , “. . .we still experience discrimination and prejudice in every area of life on a daily basis. People justify racism by stating we bring it on ourselves. This is what the general Irish population thinks about us and we know this. We feel the hate, as do our children.”
read more...
We’re sitting in a country hotel on the way back from a day in Knock. The owner comes over to our group to welcome us, asks how we’re getting on. We’re a group of eight women, mostly Travellers. They’re surprised, pleased: it’s not their usual experience.
One recalls how she couldn’t get a cup of coffee at a Traveller wedding because the hotel had ruled that no hot drinks would be served that day.
Another talks about her experience in her local shop: she walks in, there’s a queue of people waiting to be served, but immediately, a staff member approaches her, says “can I help you?” She knows that this isn’t an expression of concern, but of suspicion.
Small things, you might think, but not for Travellers, whose lives are daily corroded by the contempt so many of their fellow citizens feel for them. Or as Brigid Quilligan, director of the Irish Traveller Movement, told a recent Oireachtas Committee , “. . .we still experience discrimination and prejudice in every area of life on a daily basis. People justify racism by stating we bring it on ourselves. This is what the general Irish population thinks about us and we know this. We feel the hate, as do our children.”
read more...
Saturday, 21 June 2014
Rasen and Caistor ‘encampment’ fears - Lincolnshire
From the Market Rasen Mail
West Lindsey District Councillors fear the district may take more than its ‘fair share’ of gypsies, and Market Rasen and Caistor could become “Gypsy encampments”
The Prosperous Communities Committee has deferred a decision until July to accept a consultants report on Gypsy and Traveller accommodation to give its members more time to better understand its implications.
The Gypsy and Traveller Assessment has proposed to nearly double Gypsy sites in West Lindsey to 92 pitches- more than proposed for neighbouring authorities.
Kelsey councillor Lewis Strange said he was not anti-Gypsy but “most of these Travellers have just jumped over the border from North Lincolnshire where there are no sites.”
read more...
West Lindsey District Councillors fear the district may take more than its ‘fair share’ of gypsies, and Market Rasen and Caistor could become “Gypsy encampments”
The Prosperous Communities Committee has deferred a decision until July to accept a consultants report on Gypsy and Traveller accommodation to give its members more time to better understand its implications.
The Gypsy and Traveller Assessment has proposed to nearly double Gypsy sites in West Lindsey to 92 pitches- more than proposed for neighbouring authorities.
Kelsey councillor Lewis Strange said he was not anti-Gypsy but “most of these Travellers have just jumped over the border from North Lincolnshire where there are no sites.”
read more...
Protecting Wakefield’s parks for summer events - Yorkshire
From the Wakefield Express
Travellers will be stopped from setting up camps in the city’s parks this summer.
Police have put powers in place to guard to protect the parks ahead of major events.
Earlier this week officers from the Central neighbourhood police team issued a Section 61 Enforcement Notice to move on a group of travellers who had set up camp in Clarence Park.
The three-month order covers Clarence Park and Thornes Park and makes it a criminal offence for people to occupy land on either park without permission and to refuse to leave it within a stated time.
read more...
Travellers will be stopped from setting up camps in the city’s parks this summer.
Police have put powers in place to guard to protect the parks ahead of major events.
Earlier this week officers from the Central neighbourhood police team issued a Section 61 Enforcement Notice to move on a group of travellers who had set up camp in Clarence Park.
The three-month order covers Clarence Park and Thornes Park and makes it a criminal offence for people to occupy land on either park without permission and to refuse to leave it within a stated time.
read more...
Travellers set up camp on Wolverhampton park football pitch - West Midlands
From the Express and Star
Around 20 caravans pulled on to Fowlers Park in Park Village on Wednesday night.
The caravans, along with dozens of vehicles, were set up on a football pitch.
It was also reported that some members of the travelling community were riding motorbikes across the pitches.
Council officers and police visited the site today and ordered the group to move on by Monday – or face enforcement action.
read more...
Around 20 caravans pulled on to Fowlers Park in Park Village on Wednesday night.
The caravans, along with dozens of vehicles, were set up on a football pitch.
It was also reported that some members of the travelling community were riding motorbikes across the pitches.
Council officers and police visited the site today and ordered the group to move on by Monday – or face enforcement action.
read more...
Friday, 20 June 2014
Travellers move into Woodingdean park - Sussex
From Brighton and Hove News
A security guard was reported to have been attacked this evening (Thursday 20 June) as travellers moved into a Woodingdean Park.
They are believed to have come from Stanmer Park where about 70 vehicles were evicted days before the Sussex Festival of Nature was due to take place.
More than 50 caravans and cars were driven into Happy Valley Park in Woodingdean while others were reported on the Rottingdean pitch and putt course.
read more...
A security guard was reported to have been attacked this evening (Thursday 20 June) as travellers moved into a Woodingdean Park.
They are believed to have come from Stanmer Park where about 70 vehicles were evicted days before the Sussex Festival of Nature was due to take place.
More than 50 caravans and cars were driven into Happy Valley Park in Woodingdean while others were reported on the Rottingdean pitch and putt course.
read more...
Brighton councillor urges cross-party action on Travellers - Sussex
From Brighton and Hove News
Something is frighteningly wrong when residents and small business owners tell me that their property is constantly under attack by Travellers and that they fear for their personal safety, but that the police are failing to offer any kind of protection, assurance or even presence when an incident is faithfully reported.
As ward councillor for Hollingdean and Stanmer, where the majority of incursions are taking place seemingly at a relentless frequency and increasing size, my overriding mandated duty is to advocate on behalf of local people irrespective of my own views on Travellers or the views of council officers and police. That is my job.
read more...
Something is frighteningly wrong when residents and small business owners tell me that their property is constantly under attack by Travellers and that they fear for their personal safety, but that the police are failing to offer any kind of protection, assurance or even presence when an incident is faithfully reported.
As ward councillor for Hollingdean and Stanmer, where the majority of incursions are taking place seemingly at a relentless frequency and increasing size, my overriding mandated duty is to advocate on behalf of local people irrespective of my own views on Travellers or the views of council officers and police. That is my job.
read more...
Over £850,000 to improve Welsh Gypsy and Traveller sites
From the Welsh Government
This is the eighth year that the Welsh Government has awarded Gypsy and Traveller Sites Capital Grants. The successful bids are:
Cardiff City Council £58,575.86
Carmarthenshire County Council £189,450
Neath Port Talbot Council £174,554
Pembrokeshire County Council £328,927.50
Rhondda Cynon Taff Council £16,288.38
Wrexham County Borough Council £85,482.50
Grants will be spent on a number of activities including resurfacing plots, electrical rewiring, landscaping plots, erecting fences and improving security.
read more...
see also: The BBC - Councils awarded grants for Gypsy and Traveller sites revamp
The South Wales Evening Post - Cash boost for Gypsy and Traveller sites in Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire
This is the eighth year that the Welsh Government has awarded Gypsy and Traveller Sites Capital Grants. The successful bids are:
Cardiff City Council £58,575.86
Carmarthenshire County Council £189,450
Neath Port Talbot Council £174,554
Pembrokeshire County Council £328,927.50
Rhondda Cynon Taff Council £16,288.38
Wrexham County Borough Council £85,482.50
Grants will be spent on a number of activities including resurfacing plots, electrical rewiring, landscaping plots, erecting fences and improving security.
read more...
see also: The BBC - Councils awarded grants for Gypsy and Traveller sites revamp
The South Wales Evening Post - Cash boost for Gypsy and Traveller sites in Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire
Travellers forced to move from field in Mitchell near Truro to site 100 yards away - Cornwall
From the West Briton
TRAVELLERS who set up camp on a field have been forced to move as a result of a police order initiated by landowner Cornwall Council.
The group in Mitchell moved to a nearby public playing field used by local community groups, but after strong objections from residents a farmer has now offered them a temporary site nearby.
read more...
TRAVELLERS who set up camp on a field have been forced to move as a result of a police order initiated by landowner Cornwall Council.
The group in Mitchell moved to a nearby public playing field used by local community groups, but after strong objections from residents a farmer has now offered them a temporary site nearby.
read more...
Police donate hundreds of pounds to Gypsy and Traveller production - Sussex
From the Argus
Police have donated hundreds of pounds to help produce a play about Gypsy and Traveller communities.
Sussex Police donated £250 to ‘Friends Families and Travellers’ to assist the creation of ‘Crystal’s Vardo’ – a play about a girl’s journey through Romany History and her quest to piece together her ancestry.
The donation coincides with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month, which takes place throughout June.
read more...
Police have donated hundreds of pounds to help produce a play about Gypsy and Traveller communities.
Sussex Police donated £250 to ‘Friends Families and Travellers’ to assist the creation of ‘Crystal’s Vardo’ – a play about a girl’s journey through Romany History and her quest to piece together her ancestry.
The donation coincides with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month, which takes place throughout June.
read more...
Thursday, 19 June 2014
Travellers moved on from Basingstoke park - Hampshire
From the Gazette
TRAVELLERS who set up camp at a Basingstoke park have been moved on by the police.
Seven caravans and 10 vehicles arrived at Stratton Park, off Pack Lane, in Kempshott, on Friday, June 6.
read more...
TRAVELLERS who set up camp at a Basingstoke park have been moved on by the police.
Seven caravans and 10 vehicles arrived at Stratton Park, off Pack Lane, in Kempshott, on Friday, June 6.
read more...
England team's first Romany footballer 'deserves recognition'
From the BBC
In 1895 Rabbi Howell made history as the first Romany footballer to play for England, but 119 years on the pioneering player lies buried in an unmarked grave. Now as an appeal to raise funds for a headstone begins, what is the story behind Howell's ground-breaking career and have sporting attitudes to the Romany community changed?
Howell was born in 1867 in a Gypsy camp in Dore, Sheffield.
Steven Kay, who has written a book on Howell, said: "His birth certificate suggests he was born in a tent as there were no houses at the address given.
"He must have been an itinerant at the time."
read more...
In 1895 Rabbi Howell made history as the first Romany footballer to play for England, but 119 years on the pioneering player lies buried in an unmarked grave. Now as an appeal to raise funds for a headstone begins, what is the story behind Howell's ground-breaking career and have sporting attitudes to the Romany community changed?
Howell was born in 1867 in a Gypsy camp in Dore, Sheffield.
Steven Kay, who has written a book on Howell, said: "His birth certificate suggests he was born in a tent as there were no houses at the address given.
"He must have been an itinerant at the time."
read more...
Ruling to evict gypsy family from land in Potto near Hutton Rudby is quashed - Yorkshire
From the Gazette Live
A ruling to evict a Gypsy family from an area of land has been quashed.
An inspector for the Secretary of State has overruled Hambleton District Council’s decision to deny proposals for a private one-family Gypsy site in Potto, near Hutton Rudby.
He also quashed two enforcement notices issued by the council to force the family out and for them to return the area of land to its original condition.
read more...
A ruling to evict a Gypsy family from an area of land has been quashed.
An inspector for the Secretary of State has overruled Hambleton District Council’s decision to deny proposals for a private one-family Gypsy site in Potto, near Hutton Rudby.
He also quashed two enforcement notices issued by the council to force the family out and for them to return the area of land to its original condition.
read more...
Wednesday, 18 June 2014
More Travellers arrive in Bury St Edmunds - Suffolk
From the Bury Free Press
Travellers have moved onto the car park at Bury Leisure Centre in Beetons Way.
Six unauthorised vehicles moved onto the car park on Tuesday night and extra car parking arrangements have been brought in for centre users.
read more...
Travellers have moved onto the car park at Bury Leisure Centre in Beetons Way.
Six unauthorised vehicles moved onto the car park on Tuesday night and extra car parking arrangements have been brought in for centre users.
read more...
Who is the number one target of hate speech on Twitter?
From Wired
For the last year or so, a computer program called HateBot has been scouring Twitter, finding and logging "hate speech". The data it has collected from the UK is a potent reminder of the casual racism that still exists in our society.
Wired.co.uk first covered the Hatebase project in April 2013. The project, which is a database of hate speech aimed at helping NGOs spot areas of growing conflict, now involves a bot that scrapes data from Twitter, HateBot, and a program for processing the information, HateBrain.
We asked Hatebase to pull out information from its database about hate speech in the UK. What the data suggests is that the most common hate speech in the UK derive from insults used against the Traveller or Gypsy community.
read more...
For the last year or so, a computer program called HateBot has been scouring Twitter, finding and logging "hate speech". The data it has collected from the UK is a potent reminder of the casual racism that still exists in our society.
Wired.co.uk first covered the Hatebase project in April 2013. The project, which is a database of hate speech aimed at helping NGOs spot areas of growing conflict, now involves a bot that scrapes data from Twitter, HateBot, and a program for processing the information, HateBrain.
We asked Hatebase to pull out information from its database about hate speech in the UK. What the data suggests is that the most common hate speech in the UK derive from insults used against the Traveller or Gypsy community.
read more...
Travellers move in on playing field - Somerset
From the Nailsea, Cleveland and Portishead Times
The group, thought to have four to six caravans and a number of other vehicles, moved on to the fields at Strode Road yesterday (Tues) evening.
A spokesman for North Somerset Council has said the authority is aware of the encampment and one of its officers is due to visit it today.
read more...
The group, thought to have four to six caravans and a number of other vehicles, moved on to the fields at Strode Road yesterday (Tues) evening.
A spokesman for North Somerset Council has said the authority is aware of the encampment and one of its officers is due to visit it today.
read more...
Travellers return to Manvers - Yorkshire
From the Rotherham Advertiser
TRAVELLERS have set up a sizeable campsite on a park in Wath-upon-Dearne.
More than a dozen vehicles arrived on Monday night at the site between Biscay Way and Recreation Road — adjacent to a rugby pitch, a skatepark and a play area.
read more...
TRAVELLERS have set up a sizeable campsite on a park in Wath-upon-Dearne.
More than a dozen vehicles arrived on Monday night at the site between Biscay Way and Recreation Road — adjacent to a rugby pitch, a skatepark and a play area.
read more...
‘Let Travellers use suburban spaces' plea - Sussex
From the Argus
COUNCIL leader Jason Kitcat has suggested more suburban spaces could be open to Travellers, adding people do not want to see “Fortress Brighton”.
Brighton and Hove City Council’s leader said parks and open spaces in outlying areas of the city should be used as “tolerated” sites until the Government has reached a decision over a permanent Traveller site for the area.
read more...
COUNCIL leader Jason Kitcat has suggested more suburban spaces could be open to Travellers, adding people do not want to see “Fortress Brighton”.
Brighton and Hove City Council’s leader said parks and open spaces in outlying areas of the city should be used as “tolerated” sites until the Government has reached a decision over a permanent Traveller site for the area.
read more...
Travellers have left Victoria Park - Worcestershire
From the Malvern Observer
TRAVELLERS who sparked concerns when they arrived on Victoria Park on Saturday have now left.
The news was confirmed by police on @MalvernCops on Twitter last night (Tuesday, June 17) about 11pm.
A post on the popular feed which has more than 1,600 followers said: “PCSO Tudge reports that the group camped on Victoria Park have moved on this evening.”
An hour later another post confirmed Malvern Town Council which owns Victoria Park, had re-secured the site and would be returning this morning to clean it up.
read more...
TRAVELLERS who sparked concerns when they arrived on Victoria Park on Saturday have now left.
The news was confirmed by police on @MalvernCops on Twitter last night (Tuesday, June 17) about 11pm.
A post on the popular feed which has more than 1,600 followers said: “PCSO Tudge reports that the group camped on Victoria Park have moved on this evening.”
An hour later another post confirmed Malvern Town Council which owns Victoria Park, had re-secured the site and would be returning this morning to clean it up.
read more...
Gypsies set up camp in Abbey Wood - London
From Get West London
Gypsies have set up camp in a field in Abbey Wood.
Caravans began pulling up at 11am this morning (June 17) to the field between Longleigh Lane, Bramptom Road and Bostall Hill.
Met Police are currently blocking off one of several entrances to the grassy area.
Gypsies have set up camp in a field in Abbey Wood.
Caravans began pulling up at 11am this morning (June 17) to the field between Longleigh Lane, Bramptom Road and Bostall Hill.
Met Police are currently blocking off one of several entrances to the grassy area.
Travellers set up at Abbrook playing fields, Kingsteignton Read - Devon
From the Herald Express
Travellers have moved onto Abbrook playing fields, Kingsteignton this week.
It’s believed that three caravans and a motor home are on the site.
Landowners Sibelco have talked to them in an attempt to move them on, but so far discussions have failed.
The fields, which form part of the former sports and social club, is used by various sports club and also houses allotments and Teign Academy’s school farm.
read more...
Travellers have moved onto Abbrook playing fields, Kingsteignton this week.
It’s believed that three caravans and a motor home are on the site.
Landowners Sibelco have talked to them in an attempt to move them on, but so far discussions have failed.
The fields, which form part of the former sports and social club, is used by various sports club and also houses allotments and Teign Academy’s school farm.
read more...
Travellers leave Clarence Park - Yorkshire
From the Wakefield Express
A group of Travellers have been moved on from Clarence Park.
They set up a camp, of about 15 caravans, on Saturday after having been on the old council planning offices in Newton Bar.
Officers from the Central neighbourhood police team served a Section 61 Enforcement Notice under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act on the Travellers,
It meant they had to leave with in a designated time.
read more...
A group of Travellers have been moved on from Clarence Park.
They set up a camp, of about 15 caravans, on Saturday after having been on the old council planning offices in Newton Bar.
Officers from the Central neighbourhood police team served a Section 61 Enforcement Notice under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act on the Travellers,
It meant they had to leave with in a designated time.
read more...
Tuesday, 17 June 2014
‘More Questions’ Arise Over Cost Of Traveller Site - Wiltshire
From Now Bath
The price tag for the controversial project has been put in the spotlight once following a decision by Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee to give permission for the plans to go ahead on Wednesday 4th June.
Confusion had already surrounded the cost of building the 13-plot Traveller site, with the Liberal Democrat-run Council previously claiming the total cost would be no more than £1.8 million, despite putting aside a sum of up to £2.45 million in the budget for the project.
read more...
The price tag for the controversial project has been put in the spotlight once following a decision by Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee to give permission for the plans to go ahead on Wednesday 4th June.
Confusion had already surrounded the cost of building the 13-plot Traveller site, with the Liberal Democrat-run Council previously claiming the total cost would be no more than £1.8 million, despite putting aside a sum of up to £2.45 million in the budget for the project.
read more...
Travellers set up camp on verge alongside Bradley Stoke Way - Gloucestershire
From the Bradley Stoke Journal
A local councillor and scores of residents are demanding that action be taken to disperse a Traveller encampment that has appeared on the side of a major road in Bradley Stoke.
Four caravans and a number of other vehicles were this afternoon occupying part of the wide grass verge on the eastern side of Bradley Stoke Way, just south of Primrose Bridge.
The caravans are believed to have been towed onto the verge sometime this morning (Monday 16th), causing disruption to traffic as they negotiated the short but steep slope at the side of the road.
read more...
A local councillor and scores of residents are demanding that action be taken to disperse a Traveller encampment that has appeared on the side of a major road in Bradley Stoke.
Four caravans and a number of other vehicles were this afternoon occupying part of the wide grass verge on the eastern side of Bradley Stoke Way, just south of Primrose Bridge.
The caravans are believed to have been towed onto the verge sometime this morning (Monday 16th), causing disruption to traffic as they negotiated the short but steep slope at the side of the road.
read more...
Travellers move on to sports field - Devon
From the Mid Devon Advertiser
A GROUP of Travellers have moved on to land at Kingsteignton.
Three caravans and one motorhome were seen at Abbrook playing fields, the site of the former sports and social club.
It is believed they arrived at about noon today (Monday).
The land is owned by minerals firm Sibelco and staff have been in contact with the Travellers but requests for them to move on have so far failed.
Water supplies to the site have been switched off by Sibelco to prevent any damage to pipes.
read more...
A GROUP of Travellers have moved on to land at Kingsteignton.
Three caravans and one motorhome were seen at Abbrook playing fields, the site of the former sports and social club.
It is believed they arrived at about noon today (Monday).
The land is owned by minerals firm Sibelco and staff have been in contact with the Travellers but requests for them to move on have so far failed.
Water supplies to the site have been switched off by Sibelco to prevent any damage to pipes.
read more...
Police accused of ‘institutional racism’ towards Romanies
From the Independent
One of Britain’s largest police forces has launched a review into how it deals with Gypsies, Roma and Travellers after being accused of institutional racism by one of its own officers.
Thames Valley Police said yesterday that it had reached a settlement with Constable Jim Davies, an English Romany Gypsy who claimed at an employment tribunal earlier this year that he had been subjected to years of racial abuse.
PC Davies, 52, from Brackley, Northamptonshire, also alleged that he had witnessed other officers referring to Romany Gypsies as “pikeys”. His experiences led him to found Britain’s first Gypsy Roma Traveller Police Association (GRTPA), which launched in March and now has 55 members.
read more...
see also: The Bucks Free Press - Thames Valley Police have launched an independent review
The Oxford Times - Thames Valley Police to review treatment of Traveller community
Get Bucks - Thames Valley policeman complains of race discrimination against Gypsy Roma community
Thames Valley Police - Outcome of recent complaint against Thames Valley Police
One of Britain’s largest police forces has launched a review into how it deals with Gypsies, Roma and Travellers after being accused of institutional racism by one of its own officers.
Thames Valley Police said yesterday that it had reached a settlement with Constable Jim Davies, an English Romany Gypsy who claimed at an employment tribunal earlier this year that he had been subjected to years of racial abuse.
PC Davies, 52, from Brackley, Northamptonshire, also alleged that he had witnessed other officers referring to Romany Gypsies as “pikeys”. His experiences led him to found Britain’s first Gypsy Roma Traveller Police Association (GRTPA), which launched in March and now has 55 members.
read more...
see also: The Bucks Free Press - Thames Valley Police have launched an independent review
The Oxford Times - Thames Valley Police to review treatment of Traveller community
Get Bucks - Thames Valley policeman complains of race discrimination against Gypsy Roma community
Thames Valley Police - Outcome of recent complaint against Thames Valley Police
Complaints after Travellers set up camp in Victoria Park, Malvern Link - Worcestershire
From the Malvern Gazette
TRAVELLERS have moved onto a popular park in Malvern Link, causing residents to complain about noise, litter and lack of respect.
Five caravans and accompanying cars arrived in the town’s Victoria Park, in the middle of a residential area opposite Morgan Motor Company in Pickersleigh Road, on Saturday evening.
read more...
TRAVELLERS have moved onto a popular park in Malvern Link, causing residents to complain about noise, litter and lack of respect.
Five caravans and accompanying cars arrived in the town’s Victoria Park, in the middle of a residential area opposite Morgan Motor Company in Pickersleigh Road, on Saturday evening.
read more...
Travellers set up new camp on builders’ ground near Forfar - Angus
From the Courier
Travellers twice moved on from illegal Forfar sites in recent weeks have pitched up at a disused mill near the town.
The group, which first arrived on open ground near the town’s Montrose Road at the beginning of May, has been at the centre of at least two court actions to move them on.
read more...
Travellers twice moved on from illegal Forfar sites in recent weeks have pitched up at a disused mill near the town.
The group, which first arrived on open ground near the town’s Montrose Road at the beginning of May, has been at the centre of at least two court actions to move them on.
read more...
Travellers who caused Bath Road South car park to be closed move on - Dorset
TRAVELLERS that set up camp in Bournemouth town centre have now moved on.
On Saturday morning, several motor homes arrived at Bath Road South car park, causing it to be closed until Sunday to prevent a further incursion.
The council was set to apply for a court order to remove them yesterday, but they left of their own accord. From the Daily Echo
read more...
On Saturday morning, several motor homes arrived at Bath Road South car park, causing it to be closed until Sunday to prevent a further incursion.
The council was set to apply for a court order to remove them yesterday, but they left of their own accord. From the Daily Echo
read more...
Travellers return to Port Glasgow - Inverclyde
From the Greenock Telegraph
VISITORS could avoid a popular local attraction because of the presence of Travellers near to it, a senior councillor has claimed.
Depute Provost David Wilson made the claim yesterday after a group arrived in Port Glasgow and set up an illegal camp.
Four caravans pitched up early yesterday morning at a spot next to picturesque Newark Castle.
read more...
VISITORS could avoid a popular local attraction because of the presence of Travellers near to it, a senior councillor has claimed.
Depute Provost David Wilson made the claim yesterday after a group arrived in Port Glasgow and set up an illegal camp.
Four caravans pitched up early yesterday morning at a spot next to picturesque Newark Castle.
read more...
Travellers leave South Derbyshire site, but leave a mess behind - Derbyshire
From the Burton Mail
TRAVELLERS who set up a camp close to the A444 in South Derbyshire on Friday have now left the site, leaving piles of rubbish all over the field.
On Saturday the Mail reported that around 30 caravans began to gradually arrive at the site next to the St Modwen Manorfields development in Castle Gresley on Friday.
Residents living nearby said they were concerned that the Travellers stay at the site, which was set up on land owned by St Modwen Homes, for a sustained length of time unless the company took action to have them evicted. It is not known whether the group was asked to leave or did so at their own accord.
read more...
TRAVELLERS who set up a camp close to the A444 in South Derbyshire on Friday have now left the site, leaving piles of rubbish all over the field.
On Saturday the Mail reported that around 30 caravans began to gradually arrive at the site next to the St Modwen Manorfields development in Castle Gresley on Friday.
Residents living nearby said they were concerned that the Travellers stay at the site, which was set up on land owned by St Modwen Homes, for a sustained length of time unless the company took action to have them evicted. It is not known whether the group was asked to leave or did so at their own accord.
read more...
Monday, 16 June 2014
Outcome of recent complaint against Thames Valley Police
From Thames Valley police
Following a recent complaint of Race Discrimination by one of its officers, PC Jim Davies, who is an English Romany Gypsy, Thames Valley Police are pleased to report that a settlement has been reached .
In light of the issues and observations raised by PC Davies, a review of how Thames Valley Police engages with Gypsy Roma Traveller (GRT) communities will be commenced.
This review will be conducted independently and will involve a review of existing policies and procedures to ensure Thames Valley Police serves all of its communities and ensures that any racial stereotyping or outdated practices and procedures are amended or removed.
PC Davies will be instrumental in assisting in this process, as will the newly formed GRT Police Association.
Thames Valley Police would like to make clear that this is a non-financial settlement, and that at no time during the course of settlement negotiations has PC Davies sought personal financial compensation.
Thames Valley Police is pleased that these matters have been brought to its attention.
It will not tolerate any form of discrimination towards any minority group and strives to operate fully in compliance with good practice in relation to diversity and equality, both within the force and externally insofar as it best serves its communities, including the GRT community.
Thames Valley Police will await the outcome of the findings and any recommendations of the independent review.
Following a recent complaint of Race Discrimination by one of its officers, PC Jim Davies, who is an English Romany Gypsy, Thames Valley Police are pleased to report that a settlement has been reached .
In light of the issues and observations raised by PC Davies, a review of how Thames Valley Police engages with Gypsy Roma Traveller (GRT) communities will be commenced.
This review will be conducted independently and will involve a review of existing policies and procedures to ensure Thames Valley Police serves all of its communities and ensures that any racial stereotyping or outdated practices and procedures are amended or removed.
PC Davies will be instrumental in assisting in this process, as will the newly formed GRT Police Association.
Thames Valley Police would like to make clear that this is a non-financial settlement, and that at no time during the course of settlement negotiations has PC Davies sought personal financial compensation.
Thames Valley Police is pleased that these matters have been brought to its attention.
It will not tolerate any form of discrimination towards any minority group and strives to operate fully in compliance with good practice in relation to diversity and equality, both within the force and externally insofar as it best serves its communities, including the GRT community.
Thames Valley Police will await the outcome of the findings and any recommendations of the independent review.
Harlow Council seek legal advice over Travellers - Essex
From the Harlow Star
HARLOW Council is seeking external legal advice on how to tackle the illegal Traveller encampments in the town.
The travellers previously on Third Avenue have now moved to Katherine’s playing field, which is land owned by Harlow Council. The authority visited the encampment this morning (Monday, June 16). A court hearing was due to be held today regarding the Travellers on Three Horseshoes Road.
read more...
HARLOW Council is seeking external legal advice on how to tackle the illegal Traveller encampments in the town.
The travellers previously on Third Avenue have now moved to Katherine’s playing field, which is land owned by Harlow Council. The authority visited the encampment this morning (Monday, June 16). A court hearing was due to be held today regarding the Travellers on Three Horseshoes Road.
read more...
Travellers given deadline to leave Clarence Park - Yorkshire
From the Wakefield Express
A group of Travellers have been given until 10am on Tuesday morning to leave Clarence Park. Officers from the Central neighbourhood police team served the Travellers with a section 61 notice, today (Monday), telling them they have to leave.
read more...
A group of Travellers have been given until 10am on Tuesday morning to leave Clarence Park. Officers from the Central neighbourhood police team served the Travellers with a section 61 notice, today (Monday), telling them they have to leave.
read more...
Freeport travellers set to be evicted - Essex
From the Braintree and Witham Times
Five travelling families were set to be given eviction notices this morning after pitching up next to Braintree Freeport.
They arrived on Friday on a small piece of green space between the shopping village and the railway line, opposite the coach park.
read more...
see also: The Essex Chronicle - Travellers pitch up at Freeport Braintree as eviction notice is issued
Five travelling families were set to be given eviction notices this morning after pitching up next to Braintree Freeport.
They arrived on Friday on a small piece of green space between the shopping village and the railway line, opposite the coach park.
read more...
see also: The Essex Chronicle - Travellers pitch up at Freeport Braintree as eviction notice is issued
Scottish Traveller faces eviction after bedroom tax imposed on Traveller site
From the Travellers' Times
SCOTTISH Traveller Fiona Townsley is facing eviction after Perth and Kinross Council imposed a bedroom tax on her site - and she refused to pay, arguing that the charge does not apply to mobile homes and that it would indirectly discriminate against her on grounds of her race.
The tax – officially called “under occupancy tax” – means people of a working age in social housing who have a spare bedroom will find housing benefit claims reduced by about £40 to £80 a month.The hated tax, brought in by the Conservative and Liberal Coalition Government, is affecting over half a million people across the United Kingdom.
Mrs Townsley, who cares for her elderly mother who also lives on the site, says: “I refused to pay it. All the other chalets are three-bedroom as well, so I cannot move to a smaller chalet on the site. The council would not replace my chalet with a one bedroom chalet. I also offered to move back into a trailer on the site, but they refused that as well.”
read more...
SCOTTISH Traveller Fiona Townsley is facing eviction after Perth and Kinross Council imposed a bedroom tax on her site - and she refused to pay, arguing that the charge does not apply to mobile homes and that it would indirectly discriminate against her on grounds of her race.
The tax – officially called “under occupancy tax” – means people of a working age in social housing who have a spare bedroom will find housing benefit claims reduced by about £40 to £80 a month.The hated tax, brought in by the Conservative and Liberal Coalition Government, is affecting over half a million people across the United Kingdom.
Mrs Townsley, who cares for her elderly mother who also lives on the site, says: “I refused to pay it. All the other chalets are three-bedroom as well, so I cannot move to a smaller chalet on the site. The council would not replace my chalet with a one bedroom chalet. I also offered to move back into a trailer on the site, but they refused that as well.”
read more...
Action to stop Travellers returning near school - Lincolnshire
From the Scunthorpe Telegraph
CONCERNS over Travellers' caravans and parking issues near Brigg Primary School have been raised again.
At the end of February, North Lincolnshire Council installed temporary barriers near the entrance to the Atherton Way school.
The barriers were placed on the site in response to illegally parked caravans near the school entrance.
However, a number of parents complained that the barriers had caused "bedlam" and exacerbated the issue.
read more...
CONCERNS over Travellers' caravans and parking issues near Brigg Primary School have been raised again.
At the end of February, North Lincolnshire Council installed temporary barriers near the entrance to the Atherton Way school.
The barriers were placed on the site in response to illegally parked caravans near the school entrance.
However, a number of parents complained that the barriers had caused "bedlam" and exacerbated the issue.
read more...
Council approves three–pitch Gypsy site application - Derbyshire
From the Derbyshire Times
A controversial planning application for a Dales Gypsy site has been approved by planning chiefs.
Members of Derbyshire Dales District Council’s planning committee approved the application for a three–pitch Traveller site at the Woodyard, off the A6 at Homesford.
Permission, for the application, which was submitted by the Derbyshire Gypsy Liaison Group, was granted for a period of three years.
read more...
A controversial planning application for a Dales Gypsy site has been approved by planning chiefs.
Members of Derbyshire Dales District Council’s planning committee approved the application for a three–pitch Traveller site at the Woodyard, off the A6 at Homesford.
Permission, for the application, which was submitted by the Derbyshire Gypsy Liaison Group, was granted for a period of three years.
read more...
Sunday, 15 June 2014
Travellers in Brentwood Centre car park 'have left' - Essex
From the Brentwood Gazette
Travellers that were staying in the car park at the Brentwood Centre have left, according to the council.
The three caravans moved in to the Doddinghurst Road venue's parking area on the evening of June 8, and the occupants had informed Brentwood Borough Council that they had intended to stay for 'a few more days' before moving on.
read more...
Travellers that were staying in the car park at the Brentwood Centre have left, according to the council.
The three caravans moved in to the Doddinghurst Road venue's parking area on the evening of June 8, and the occupants had informed Brentwood Borough Council that they had intended to stay for 'a few more days' before moving on.
read more...
How to Eat Like a Real "Gypsy"
From the Daily Meal
Gypsy cuisine has been called “the little known soul food” and is one of my favorite ways to celebrate my mixed-Gypsy heritage and Romani and Traveller history month. Gypsies have a rich and complicated identity and history, which is reflected in the delicious complexity of the food, and, like most things, it’s a lot better when you understand it.
read more...
Gypsy cuisine has been called “the little known soul food” and is one of my favorite ways to celebrate my mixed-Gypsy heritage and Romani and Traveller history month. Gypsies have a rich and complicated identity and history, which is reflected in the delicious complexity of the food, and, like most things, it’s a lot better when you understand it.
read more...
Conservatives angry at ‘cat and mouse games’ by evicted Tavellers - Sussex
From GScene
Travellers evicted from Wild Park by police and council officials on Wednesday have dispersed to a variety of locations around the city including Preston Park where the gates allowing caravan access to the park remained unlocked after the Wild Park eviction.
read more...
Travellers evicted from Wild Park by police and council officials on Wednesday have dispersed to a variety of locations around the city including Preston Park where the gates allowing caravan access to the park remained unlocked after the Wild Park eviction.
read more...
Barry Smith murder trial: Killed 'because he was a Gypsy' - Derbyshire
From the Derby Telegraph
FATHER-OF-FOUR Barry Smith was horrifically beaten to death "simply because he was a Gypsy", say his family.
The 48-year-old's former wife and their children have called his death a "race killing".
Three people were yesterday sentenced to life, with a recommendation they serve a total of 52 years, for Mr Smith's murder.
read more...
FATHER-OF-FOUR Barry Smith was horrifically beaten to death "simply because he was a Gypsy", say his family.
The 48-year-old's former wife and their children have called his death a "race killing".
Three people were yesterday sentenced to life, with a recommendation they serve a total of 52 years, for Mr Smith's murder.
read more...
Edenbridge residents: Sevenoaks should take Gypsy sites - Kent
From the Sevenoaks Chronicle
PLANNERS say they are trying to end a north-south divide in the distribution of Traveller sites.
The officers, who are currently consulting on plans to create an extra 72 caravan pitches on top of the 89 already in the district, say the biggest feedback they’ve had surrounds the unbalanced spread of locations.
Members of the public have asked the planners why there are proposals for locations in Shoreham, Halstead, West Kingsdown, Swanley and Hextable in the north of the district but few near Sevenoaks itself or in the south.
read more...
PLANNERS say they are trying to end a north-south divide in the distribution of Traveller sites.
The officers, who are currently consulting on plans to create an extra 72 caravan pitches on top of the 89 already in the district, say the biggest feedback they’ve had surrounds the unbalanced spread of locations.
Members of the public have asked the planners why there are proposals for locations in Shoreham, Halstead, West Kingsdown, Swanley and Hextable in the north of the district but few near Sevenoaks itself or in the south.
read more...
Saturday, 14 June 2014
Bath Road South car park in Bournemouth town centre shut after motorhomes arrive - Dorset
From the Bournemouth Echo
A MAIN car park in Bournemouth has been closed today after Travellers set up inside.
The Bath Road South car park has been shut to the public, with security guards at the entrance.
It is thought that it has been closed to stop further traveller vehicles from gaining access.
Security has also been set up at other vulnerable sites around the borough, including Kings Park.
read more...
A MAIN car park in Bournemouth has been closed today after Travellers set up inside.
The Bath Road South car park has been shut to the public, with security guards at the entrance.
It is thought that it has been closed to stop further traveller vehicles from gaining access.
Security has also been set up at other vulnerable sites around the borough, including Kings Park.
read more...
Travellers’ appeal for home rejected - London
From the Enfield Times
THE government has quashed an appeal from a Traveller family to set up a permanent home in the green belt in North Enfield.
Traveller Jim Lavin first submitted a planning bid to Enfield Council in 2012 to use a piece of abandoned land beside Durwen Nursery, in Tingeys Top Lane, Crews Hill, as a permanent site for three static caravans, a utility building, a septic tank and fencing.
The site had been developed previously, but is situated on green belt land. The bid was rejected by the council’s planning committee in March last year and the travellers decided to appeal against the decision to the planning inspectorate.
However, that appeal has now been rejected on the grounds that the development would harm the green belt site.
read more...
THE government has quashed an appeal from a Traveller family to set up a permanent home in the green belt in North Enfield.
Traveller Jim Lavin first submitted a planning bid to Enfield Council in 2012 to use a piece of abandoned land beside Durwen Nursery, in Tingeys Top Lane, Crews Hill, as a permanent site for three static caravans, a utility building, a septic tank and fencing.
The site had been developed previously, but is situated on green belt land. The bid was rejected by the council’s planning committee in March last year and the travellers decided to appeal against the decision to the planning inspectorate.
However, that appeal has now been rejected on the grounds that the development would harm the green belt site.
read more...
Forfar Travellers’ camp is dispersed - Angus
From the Courier
An illegal Travellers’ encampment in Angus has dispersed under order.
The group of 30 or so caravans in Forfar, at the Orchardbank industrial estate, had been in town since the beginning of May.
A motion by joint landowners Angus Council and Hermiston Securities Ltd was granted to break up the encampment at Forfar Sheriff Court on Thursday.
read more...
An illegal Travellers’ encampment in Angus has dispersed under order.
The group of 30 or so caravans in Forfar, at the Orchardbank industrial estate, had been in town since the beginning of May.
A motion by joint landowners Angus Council and Hermiston Securities Ltd was granted to break up the encampment at Forfar Sheriff Court on Thursday.
read more...
Travellers back at Wild Park - Sussex
From the Argus
THE “cat and mouse” game between Travellers and the local authorities continued yesterday as public spaces were breached again.
Wild Park in Brighton saw two caravans return yesterday after a mass encampment of almost 100 vehicles was broken up by police on Wednesday night.
An encampment of about 40 Traveller vehicles remains in Preston Park in Brighton – for the second time in as many weeks.
Meanwhile, another encampment sits in Stanmer Park.
read more...
THE “cat and mouse” game between Travellers and the local authorities continued yesterday as public spaces were breached again.
Wild Park in Brighton saw two caravans return yesterday after a mass encampment of almost 100 vehicles was broken up by police on Wednesday night.
An encampment of about 40 Traveller vehicles remains in Preston Park in Brighton – for the second time in as many weeks.
Meanwhile, another encampment sits in Stanmer Park.
read more...
Worcester plays host to Celebration of Gypsy Roma and Traveller History Month - Worcestershire
From Dash 24
The Hive in Worcester is set to host this year’s celebration of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. The free event, which takes places on Sunday 22 June, features static and audio displays along with ‘wander round’ spaces that include banners, children’s art activities, other visual presentation and an array of printed material.
read more...
The Hive in Worcester is set to host this year’s celebration of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. The free event, which takes places on Sunday 22 June, features static and audio displays along with ‘wander round’ spaces that include banners, children’s art activities, other visual presentation and an array of printed material.
read more...
The day West Norfolk Council began demolition of £250,000 home that broke planning laws
From the Cambs Times 24
A nine year planning wrangle came to an end when enforcement officers ripped down a £250,000 home belonging to gypsies in the Fens.
The two caravans, which were said to be 18 inches too wide, were dismantled after a long-running planning dispute.
Rodney Wilson and his partner, Pamela Wenn, were on their way out when the 15-strong enforcement team turned up with police at their home at Walsoken, near Wisbech on Thursday (June 12).
They worked quickly to dismantle the immaculate park home on Broad End Road, whilst Mr Wilson and Ms Wenn were frantically left to pack their personal belongings whilst watching their house taken down around them.
read more...
see also The Wisbech Standard - Going...going...gone: Wisbech couple homeless after West Norfolk council completes two day removal of their £250,000 home
A nine year planning wrangle came to an end when enforcement officers ripped down a £250,000 home belonging to gypsies in the Fens.
The two caravans, which were said to be 18 inches too wide, were dismantled after a long-running planning dispute.
Rodney Wilson and his partner, Pamela Wenn, were on their way out when the 15-strong enforcement team turned up with police at their home at Walsoken, near Wisbech on Thursday (June 12).
They worked quickly to dismantle the immaculate park home on Broad End Road, whilst Mr Wilson and Ms Wenn were frantically left to pack their personal belongings whilst watching their house taken down around them.
read more...
see also The Wisbech Standard - Going...going...gone: Wisbech couple homeless after West Norfolk council completes two day removal of their £250,000 home
Friday, 13 June 2014
Caravan site dismantled as Travellers leave isle - Kent
From the Isle of Thanet Gazette
AN ILLEGAL Traveller site on the side of the A253 close to Minster has been dismantled.
The encampment sprang up opposite the Minster Holiday Inn a matter of yards from the boundary fence of Manston airport over the weekend.
The site was abandoned on Wednesday evening. The occupants were believed to be French Gypsies recently moved from a site in Canterbury. The campsite consisted of roughly a dozen caravans at its peak.
read more...
AN ILLEGAL Traveller site on the side of the A253 close to Minster has been dismantled.
The encampment sprang up opposite the Minster Holiday Inn a matter of yards from the boundary fence of Manston airport over the weekend.
The site was abandoned on Wednesday evening. The occupants were believed to be French Gypsies recently moved from a site in Canterbury. The campsite consisted of roughly a dozen caravans at its peak.
read more...
Travellers leave Blondin Park - London
From Ealing Council
Ealing Council can confirm that the Traveller group that arrived in the Blondin Park on Wednesday evening have left the park.
Trees in a park
The Travellers were served with a Direction yesterday under s.77 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 requiring them to leave the site by 5pm today.
read more...
see also: Get West London - Travellers leave Northfields' Blondin Park
Ealing Council can confirm that the Traveller group that arrived in the Blondin Park on Wednesday evening have left the park.
Trees in a park
The Travellers were served with a Direction yesterday under s.77 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 requiring them to leave the site by 5pm today.
read more...
see also: Get West London - Travellers leave Northfields' Blondin Park
Villagers 'disappointed' after Flackwell Heath Travellers site approved - Buckinghamshire
From the Bucks Free Press
TRAVELLERS have been given permission to permanently stay on green belt land in Flackwell Heath, despite a lengthy campaign from concerned neighbours.
Wycombe District Council previously refused to allow a family of Travellers to occupy green belt sites in Flackwell Heath and Walters Ash.
However, after an inquiry led by the Secretary of State, the group have been given permanent permission to use a former plant nursery in Heath End Road and have also been given temporary permission to use land outside RAF Air Command in Walters Ash.
read more...
TRAVELLERS have been given permission to permanently stay on green belt land in Flackwell Heath, despite a lengthy campaign from concerned neighbours.
Wycombe District Council previously refused to allow a family of Travellers to occupy green belt sites in Flackwell Heath and Walters Ash.
However, after an inquiry led by the Secretary of State, the group have been given permanent permission to use a former plant nursery in Heath End Road and have also been given temporary permission to use land outside RAF Air Command in Walters Ash.
read more...
Travellers in Kettering park told to leave ‘by Monday’ - Northamptonshire
From the Northamptonshire Telegraph
The boss of the Countywide Traveller Unit (CTU) says a group of Travellers who have set up a camp in a park in Kettering have been told to move out by Monday morning (June 16).
CTU manager Steve Wilkinson said the camp, which was set up on Thursday in Meadow Road Park next to Northfield Avenue, has been visited by police and local authority representatives.
read more...
The boss of the Countywide Traveller Unit (CTU) says a group of Travellers who have set up a camp in a park in Kettering have been told to move out by Monday morning (June 16).
CTU manager Steve Wilkinson said the camp, which was set up on Thursday in Meadow Road Park next to Northfield Avenue, has been visited by police and local authority representatives.
read more...
Legal notice for travellers to leave Blondin Park issued - London
From Get West London
Travellers inhabiting Blondin park have been served a legal notice to leave by this afternoon (June 13).
Ealing Council served a Section 77 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 notice to the Travellers yesterday afternoon (June 13) requiring them to leave the Northfields park within 24 hours.
Leader of Ealing Council, Julian Bell, said he hopes they will leave both Blondin park and the borough by 5 ‘o’ clock.
The council have done welfare checks on the Travellers and their children.
read more...
Travellers inhabiting Blondin park have been served a legal notice to leave by this afternoon (June 13).
Ealing Council served a Section 77 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 notice to the Travellers yesterday afternoon (June 13) requiring them to leave the Northfields park within 24 hours.
Leader of Ealing Council, Julian Bell, said he hopes they will leave both Blondin park and the borough by 5 ‘o’ clock.
The council have done welfare checks on the Travellers and their children.
read more...
Application submitted to more than double size of Arlesey Travellers’ site - Bedfordshire
From Comet24
A planning application to more than double the size of a Travellers’ site has received objections from residents but the owner says he is just trying to make somewhere his family can live.
The application, to increase the current six pitches by a further 10 at the Twin Acres site in Arlesey, was submitted to Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) on April 29.
This comes after an application submitted last year to expand the site by 14 pitches was rejected by CBC.
read more...
A planning application to more than double the size of a Travellers’ site has received objections from residents but the owner says he is just trying to make somewhere his family can live.
The application, to increase the current six pitches by a further 10 at the Twin Acres site in Arlesey, was submitted to Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) on April 29.
This comes after an application submitted last year to expand the site by 14 pitches was rejected by CBC.
read more...
Travellers ordered to attend court after ignoring council's request to leave playing field in Grimsby Read - Lincolnshire
From the Grimsby Telegraph
TRAVELLERS on land next to the former Western Secondary School have been ordered to attend court today.
As reported, 12 caravans and a number of other vehicles set up camp on the council-owned playing fields to the rear of Grange Primary School, in Cambridge Road, earlier this week.
read more...
TRAVELLERS on land next to the former Western Secondary School have been ordered to attend court today.
As reported, 12 caravans and a number of other vehicles set up camp on the council-owned playing fields to the rear of Grange Primary School, in Cambridge Road, earlier this week.
read more...
Frustration as Travellers return to parks they had been evicted from - Sussex
From the Argus
AFTER one of the biggest single traveller encampments was broken up by police on Wednesday, most of the group simply dispersed to the public spaces they had been moved from just days before. Meanwhile, a council-run transit site contained just one family. So what can be done to stop this merry-go-round routine?
ONE of the largest migrations of travelling families took place across Brighton on Wednesday evening as Sussex Police exercised its powers of eviction.
As yesterday unfolded, it became clear that most of the near-100 caravans pitched up in Wild Park, Moulsecoomb, had dispersed to other parts of the city.
read more...
AFTER one of the biggest single traveller encampments was broken up by police on Wednesday, most of the group simply dispersed to the public spaces they had been moved from just days before. Meanwhile, a council-run transit site contained just one family. So what can be done to stop this merry-go-round routine?
ONE of the largest migrations of travelling families took place across Brighton on Wednesday evening as Sussex Police exercised its powers of eviction.
As yesterday unfolded, it became clear that most of the near-100 caravans pitched up in Wild Park, Moulsecoomb, had dispersed to other parts of the city.
read more...
Travellers at Brentwood Centre set to stay for 'a few more days' - Essex
From the Brentwood Gazette
Travellers staying at the Brentwood Centre, on Doddinghurst Road, are set to remain for a few more days.
The three caravans moved in on the evening of June 8, and Brentwood Borough Council are aware of the encampment.
They have informed the council they intend to stay for a few more days before moving on.
read more...
Travellers staying at the Brentwood Centre, on Doddinghurst Road, are set to remain for a few more days.
The three caravans moved in on the evening of June 8, and Brentwood Borough Council are aware of the encampment.
They have informed the council they intend to stay for a few more days before moving on.
read more...
Court charges withdrawn over Travellers on former Western Secondary School site in Grimsby Read - Lincolnshire
From the Lincolnshire Telegraph
A group of Travellers due to appear in court today have moved on, and the charges have been withdrawn.
As reported, Travellers on land next to the former Western Secondary School site in Grimsby were ordered to attend Grimsby Magistrates' Court this morning.
Twelve caravans and a number of other vehicles set up camp on the council-owned playing fields to the rear of Grange Primary School, in Cambridge Road, earlier this week.
read more...
A group of Travellers due to appear in court today have moved on, and the charges have been withdrawn.
As reported, Travellers on land next to the former Western Secondary School site in Grimsby were ordered to attend Grimsby Magistrates' Court this morning.
Twelve caravans and a number of other vehicles set up camp on the council-owned playing fields to the rear of Grange Primary School, in Cambridge Road, earlier this week.
read more...
Travellers ordered off illegal Forfar camp - Angus
From the Courier
An Angus sheriff has ordered Travellers who have an illegal encampment in Forfar to leave the site.
The group of Travellers, who have around 30 caravans and other vehicles, have been in Forfar since the beginning of May.
They first set up camp on Montrose Road, on ground owned by the Strang’s Mortification Trust.
After a legal notice was served for them to evict that location on May 15, they moved to the opposite side of town in a night-time flit to a site at Orchardbank.
read more...
An Angus sheriff has ordered Travellers who have an illegal encampment in Forfar to leave the site.
The group of Travellers, who have around 30 caravans and other vehicles, have been in Forfar since the beginning of May.
They first set up camp on Montrose Road, on ground owned by the Strang’s Mortification Trust.
After a legal notice was served for them to evict that location on May 15, they moved to the opposite side of town in a night-time flit to a site at Orchardbank.
read more...
Travellers access private road and pitch up on clifftop behind BIC - Dorset
From the Daily Echo
AS holiday sites go, it’s not a bad one.
Three motor homes belonging to Irish Travellers have made camp on the clifftop right behind the Bournemouth International Centre.
They gained access to the private road because of an insecure barrier.
One of the Travellers, enjoying the morning sunshine overlooking the beach and pier said; “We are over for Ireland for a few days on our holiday.
“It’s a lovely spot here and we are not causing a problem to anyone.
“We’ll probably stay until the weekend and then head off to Torquay and Paignton.”
He added: “The sunset was very nice here last night.”
read more...
AS holiday sites go, it’s not a bad one.
Three motor homes belonging to Irish Travellers have made camp on the clifftop right behind the Bournemouth International Centre.
They gained access to the private road because of an insecure barrier.
One of the Travellers, enjoying the morning sunshine overlooking the beach and pier said; “We are over for Ireland for a few days on our holiday.
“It’s a lovely spot here and we are not causing a problem to anyone.
“We’ll probably stay until the weekend and then head off to Torquay and Paignton.”
He added: “The sunset was very nice here last night.”
read more...
Travellers move on to New Park in Chichester - Sussex
From the Chichester Observer
A group of Travellers has set up camp in New Park, Chichester.
The land is owned by Chichester District Council.
A spokesperson for Chichester District Council said: “A group of Travellers moved onto New Park in Chichester on Thursday. We are working with West Sussex County Council to resolve this as soon as possible under our new agreement to work together on unauthorised encampments.”
There are more than six caravans and cars on the site.
read more...
A group of Travellers has set up camp in New Park, Chichester.
The land is owned by Chichester District Council.
A spokesperson for Chichester District Council said: “A group of Travellers moved onto New Park in Chichester on Thursday. We are working with West Sussex County Council to resolve this as soon as possible under our new agreement to work together on unauthorised encampments.”
There are more than six caravans and cars on the site.
read more...
Praise for those who attended Appleby Horse Fair - Cumbria
From the BBC
Organisers have praised the behaviour of thousands who attended this year's Appleby Horse fair in Cumbria.
More than 10,000 Gypsies and Travellers and an estimated further 30,000 visitors attended the gathering between 5 and 11 June.
Cumbria Police said just 28 arrests were made during the event - the majority for public order offences.
The only significant injury involved a woman struck by a horse on Sunday, although she was not seriously hurt.
read more...
Organisers have praised the behaviour of thousands who attended this year's Appleby Horse fair in Cumbria.
More than 10,000 Gypsies and Travellers and an estimated further 30,000 visitors attended the gathering between 5 and 11 June.
Cumbria Police said just 28 arrests were made during the event - the majority for public order offences.
The only significant injury involved a woman struck by a horse on Sunday, although she was not seriously hurt.
read more...
Row over Gypsy site 'taken over by just two families' in Kiln Lane, Epsom - Surrey
From Your Local Guardian
Just two families are occupying the whole of a Gypsy and Traveller site in Epsom, it has emerged - despite a hugely controversial proposal to create 20 new pitches in the borough.
The two extended families occupy the site at Conifer Park, in Kiln Lane, Epsom, which was built to house 14 pitches and which is owned and run by Surrey County Council (SCC).
read more...
Just two families are occupying the whole of a Gypsy and Traveller site in Epsom, it has emerged - despite a hugely controversial proposal to create 20 new pitches in the borough.
The two extended families occupy the site at Conifer Park, in Kiln Lane, Epsom, which was built to house 14 pitches and which is owned and run by Surrey County Council (SCC).
read more...
Controversial Travellers site at Piddlehinton should be operational this month - Dorset
From the Blackmore Vale Magazine
Work to prepare a temporary site so it can be used by Gypsies and Travellers in Dorset is being completed in the coming week.
Dorset County Council’s planning committee gave permission for the temporary transit site at its meeting on 9th May 2014 and the council received the formal notice of the decision on 5th June.,
The site, between Puddletown and Piddlehinton, will provide 25 caravan pitches for six months a year, March to August inclusive, ending when the temporary site provided in North Dorset in connection with the Great Dorset Steam Fair opens.
read more...
Work to prepare a temporary site so it can be used by Gypsies and Travellers in Dorset is being completed in the coming week.
Dorset County Council’s planning committee gave permission for the temporary transit site at its meeting on 9th May 2014 and the council received the formal notice of the decision on 5th June.,
The site, between Puddletown and Piddlehinton, will provide 25 caravan pitches for six months a year, March to August inclusive, ending when the temporary site provided in North Dorset in connection with the Great Dorset Steam Fair opens.
read more...
Thursday, 12 June 2014
Travellers leave Brighton park and set up three new camps - Sussex
From the BBC
A large group of Travellers removed from a park in Brighton have set up camp in three other places in the city.
The Travellers left Wild Park on Wednesday, where they had been staying since early March.
Sussex Police gained powers under Section 61 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act to have them removed.
However, upon leaving they gained access to Black Rock, Stanmer Park and Preston Park, where they remain.
read more...
A large group of Travellers removed from a park in Brighton have set up camp in three other places in the city.
The Travellers left Wild Park on Wednesday, where they had been staying since early March.
Sussex Police gained powers under Section 61 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act to have them removed.
However, upon leaving they gained access to Black Rock, Stanmer Park and Preston Park, where they remain.
read more...
Four-hour stand-off between Patcham residents and evicted Wild Park Travellers - Sussex
From the Argus
“People power” saw residents turn out in force for a four-hour stand-off with Travellers who drove on to a football and cricket pitch.
More than 30 Patcham residents turned up in protest after Travellers drove on to the grass of Patcham United Football Club and the Crescent Cricket Club in Horsdean Recreation Ground in Vale Avenue, Brighton.
Eight camper vans were seen entering the field and parking on the grass at about 6.20pm last night (Wednesday, June 11).
Police said the travellers disturbed a cricket match which was about to be start.
read more...
“People power” saw residents turn out in force for a four-hour stand-off with Travellers who drove on to a football and cricket pitch.
More than 30 Patcham residents turned up in protest after Travellers drove on to the grass of Patcham United Football Club and the Crescent Cricket Club in Horsdean Recreation Ground in Vale Avenue, Brighton.
Eight camper vans were seen entering the field and parking on the grass at about 6.20pm last night (Wednesday, June 11).
Police said the travellers disturbed a cricket match which was about to be start.
read more...
Travellers abandon Tooting Common camp - London
From the Wandsworth Guardian
Travellers who pitched up on Tooting Common have abandoned their camp after being threated with legal action.
The group, who appeared on Wednesday near Bedford Road, were immeditaely served with a warning by officers from Wandsworth Council..
The common has visits from Travellers each year however camping overnight on the common, without council permission, is a criminal offence.
read more...
Travellers who pitched up on Tooting Common have abandoned their camp after being threated with legal action.
The group, who appeared on Wednesday near Bedford Road, were immeditaely served with a warning by officers from Wandsworth Council..
The common has visits from Travellers each year however camping overnight on the common, without council permission, is a criminal offence.
read more...
New Gypsy caravan site to be 'less intense' - Staffordshire
From the Express and Star
Revised proposals for a controversial Gypsy caravan site in South Staffordshire are less 'intense' than the originals and will have a reduced impact on the green belt, an inquiry heard.
A dispute over plans to create new caravan pitches on Wolverhampton Road in Penkridge has been raging for years, even reaching Secretary of State Eric Pickles.
Applicant William Lee wants to install six caravans, including four that are static, and two amenity blocks at New Acre Stables.
The original application had been for 19 caravans on seven pitches, as well as the two amenity blocks.
read more...
Revised proposals for a controversial Gypsy caravan site in South Staffordshire are less 'intense' than the originals and will have a reduced impact on the green belt, an inquiry heard.
A dispute over plans to create new caravan pitches on Wolverhampton Road in Penkridge has been raging for years, even reaching Secretary of State Eric Pickles.
Applicant William Lee wants to install six caravans, including four that are static, and two amenity blocks at New Acre Stables.
The original application had been for 19 caravans on seven pitches, as well as the two amenity blocks.
read more...
MP Brian Donohoe blasts council plans to deal with illegal Traveller encampments as 'not good enough' - Ayreshire
From the Daily Record
Labour MP Brian Donohoe has blasted North Ayrshire Council plans to deal with illegal Traveller encampments as “not good enough”.
Last week, cabinet members agreed on a revised policy that will see a temporary job role created to deal with complaints and other issues arising from the encampments.
A Traveller Encampment Officer will be funded to the tune of £33,542 per year, paid for by the council’s housing services’ general fund.
read more...
Labour MP Brian Donohoe has blasted North Ayrshire Council plans to deal with illegal Traveller encampments as “not good enough”.
Last week, cabinet members agreed on a revised policy that will see a temporary job role created to deal with complaints and other issues arising from the encampments.
A Traveller Encampment Officer will be funded to the tune of £33,542 per year, paid for by the council’s housing services’ general fund.
read more...
Travellers moved on - Sussex
From the Worthing Herald
The Travellers on Braodwater Green have been moved on by police this morning.
Seven caravans and associated vehicles have been on the Worthing Borough Council owned land since Sunday evening.
read more...
The Travellers on Braodwater Green have been moved on by police this morning.
Seven caravans and associated vehicles have been on the Worthing Borough Council owned land since Sunday evening.
read more...
Travellers removed from Rosehill Park - London
From This s Local London
A group of Travellers that set up camp on a Sutton park have been successfully removed.
Travellers parked several caravans on Rosehill Park West on Sunday but Sutton Council managed to remove them from the site on Wednesday afternoon.
A spokesman for the council said: "The Travellers left Rosehill Park after we served notice on them.
read more...
A group of Travellers that set up camp on a Sutton park have been successfully removed.
Travellers parked several caravans on Rosehill Park West on Sunday but Sutton Council managed to remove them from the site on Wednesday afternoon.
A spokesman for the council said: "The Travellers left Rosehill Park after we served notice on them.
read more...
Travellers move on to land in Worksop - Nottinghamshire
From the Worksop Guardian
Travellers have set up camp on land off High Hoe Road in Worksop.
Several caravans are on the site, which is next to the canal,
The Travellers are believed to have been on the site for around a week so far.
read more...
Travellers have set up camp on land off High Hoe Road in Worksop.
Several caravans are on the site, which is next to the canal,
The Travellers are believed to have been on the site for around a week so far.
read more...
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