A significant unauthorised traveller encampment has been established on public sports grounds in Basildon, Essex, causing disruption to local community facilities.
A convoy of approximately twelve caravans moved onto the publicly-owned football pitches, effectively rendering them unusable for scheduled matches and local youth training sessions. The arrival of the group has sparked immediate concern from both residents and local authorities.
Council Responds with Urgent Legal Measures
Basildon Borough Council has confirmed it is aware of the situation and has swiftly initiated legal proceedings to reclaim the land. A spokesman for the council stated that officials have visited the site to conduct necessary welfare assessments, a standard procedure in such cases.
"We are taking urgent action and have begun the legal process to remove the unauthorised encampment from our public recreation ground," the council representative said. The process involves applying to the courts for a possession order, which, if granted, would empower bailiffs to legally evict the occupants.
Community Impact and Reaction
The occupation has directly impacted local sports teams and community groups who rely on these well-maintained pitches. The presence of the caravans and associated vehicles poses a risk of damage to the playing surface, which is maintained at public expense.
Local residents have expressed frustration over the loss of a valued community asset, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding unauthorised encampments in the region. The situation in Basildon reflects a wider national discussion about the provision of legal sites for travellers and the enforcement against illegal encampments.
The council has advised the public to avoid confrontation and allow the legal process to run its course, assuring the community that they are prioritising a swift and lawful resolution to the incident.
