A large group of travellers has sparked local outrage after illegally occupying a protected Green Belt field in Essex and transforming it into a substantial caravan park. The encampment, situated in Crays Hill near Billericay, appeared seemingly overnight, with witnesses reporting a rapid influx of vehicles and caravans.
Basildon Council has confirmed it is taking swift legal action to remove the group from the land, which is not designated for residential use. Officials have visited the site to conduct welfare assessments and begin the formal eviction process.
Community Concerns and Council Response
Local residents have expressed significant concern over the development, citing issues of noise, waste management, and the loss of protected green space. The arrival of the travellers has reignited longstanding tensions in the area regarding unauthorised encampments.
A spokesperson for Basildon Council stated: "We are aware of the situation and are taking appropriate action using the legal powers available to us. Our priority is to resolve this matter as quickly as possible while following due process."
Legal Process Underway
The council must follow specific legal protocols to remove travellers from private land, a process that can sometimes take several days. Authorities are currently gathering evidence and preparing the necessary documentation to present before magistrates.
This incident represents the latest in a series of challenges faced by local authorities across the UK in managing unauthorised traveller encampments on protected land. The situation in Essex continues to develop as both the council and local community await a resolution.
