An unauthorised Traveller encampment at Kimberley Park in Malpas, Newport, has forced Albion Rovers FC to cancel all football matches and training sessions until further notice. The group, consisting of at least 11 caravans and several other vehicles, moved onto the playing fields after previously disrupting a school sports day in Monmouthshire.
Impact on Albion Rovers FC
Albion Rovers FC confirmed the encampment on its playing fields, stating that the club is working with Newport City Council and other relevant parties to resolve the matter. In a statement, the club said: "Albion Rovers FC would like to make all players, parents, supporters and members aware that there is currently an unauthorised traveller encampment on the playing fields at Kimberley Park. The club is fully aware of the situation and has engaged with those currently on site. Newport City Council has also been notified and will be working with all relevant parties to achieve a successful resolution as quickly as possible. As a result, all football training sessions and matches at Kimberley Park are cancelled until further notice."
Previous Encampments in Monmouthshire
Before arriving in Newport, the same group of Travellers had set up camp on playing fields in Monmouthshire for over a week, forcing Caldicot Comprehensive School to cancel its sports day. After being served a notice to move on from the leisure centre playing fields, they relocated to the grounds of Caldicot Castle and Country Park. Monmouthshire County Council, which owns the castle, said it would follow similar steps to those taken at the leisure centre. The Travellers left the castle grounds at around 9:30 pm on Tuesday, July 14.
Council Response
A Newport City Council spokeswoman said: "Newport City Council is aware of an unauthorised encampment in a council-owned park. It is currently working with partners and monitoring the situation. It will consider next steps in line with the usual legal processes and guidelines." The council is assessing the situation and will determine appropriate action.
Community Concerns
The encampment has also caused disruption to the preparation for the Dubs at the Castle festival in Caldicot, which is still scheduled to proceed from 5 pm on Thursday, July 16. The three-day festival features classic camper vans and live music. Caldicot Castle Labour councillor Rachell Garrick expressed concern about the lack of authorised sites for Travellers, stating: "There was a voluntary exodus by the Travellers from the castle last night, followed by another overnight stay at the Caerwent training base. I believe they have now moved on to Newport. Sadly this is an issue being shifted from place to place as attempts to provide adequate sites are always resisted, resulting in difficult situations for residents and the Travelling community."
Ongoing Situation
Albion Rovers FC has asked for patience and understanding while the situation is resolved, promising updates via social media. Monmouthshire County Council is still estimating the costs of clean-up operations and any repairs to both the leisure centre and castle grounds.
