North Tyneside Council, in conjunction with Northumbria Police, has issued a legal notice requiring an unlawful encampment on The Links in Whitley Bay to vacate the area. The caravans arrived over the weekend near the Spanish City landmark, prompting immediate action from authorities.
Council and Police Issue Vacate Notice
Peter Mennell, North Tyneside Council Director of Housing and Property Services, confirmed that the Community Protection Team, supported by police, has been on site since the weekend. “We’re aware of the unlawful encampment at The Links in Whitley Bay. Our Community Protection Team, along with Northumbria Police, has been on site over the weekend and again today to speak with those present,” he said.
“Community Protection officers, supported by police, are now issuing a legal notice requiring the individuals to vacate the land. Welfare checks have been carried out, and we are continuing to follow our usual process for managing encampments,” Mennell added.
Similar Encampment Last Year
This incident comes almost exactly a year after a similar camp was set up on the same site. In July 2025, the convoy was warned that formal action would be taken if they remained. The latest encampment has been handled under the same procedures.
Previous Encampments in the Area
In 2016, residents of Whitley Bay complained about a traveller encampment in the Briardene car park, near St Mary’s lighthouse. Around 15 caravans appeared on that site before eventually moving on, causing local frustration.
Legal Protections for Travellers
Roma groups and travellers, along with other ethnic groups with distinct cultures, languages, or values, are protected from discrimination under the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 and the Human Rights Act 1998. The council’s actions follow standard procedures for managing such encampments.
Officers will continue to monitor the site as part of the ongoing management of the situation, according to the council.
