Dozens of travellers have taken over the car park at Teignbridge District Council's headquarters, despite councillors investing over £70,000 to prevent such illegal caravan sites. This incident has sparked outrage among local residents and raised questions about the effectiveness of the council's preventative measures.
Unauthorised Encampment Disrupts Council Operations
On Saturday, nearly 20 motorhomes arrived at the council's office building in Newton Abbot, Devonshire, forcing visitors to find alternative transportation. Aerial photographs reveal at least 19 caravans parked at the site, which residents have described as an 'invasion' of public space.
Teignbridge District Council issued a statement via social media acknowledging the 'unauthorised encampment' has resulted in 'limited' parking availability. A spokesperson explained: 'Due to an unauthorised encampment of caravans and other vehicles in Forde House car park, which arrived on Saturday, parking at the site will be severely limited this week.'
Council's Response and Visitor Guidance
The council advised that their reception would remain open for appointments, but urged visitors to use public transport, walk, or cycle where possible. Alternatively, they suggested parking at other town car parks and walking to Forde House. Limited parking was reserved for those with mobility issues.
Road signs were erected at the entrance displaying: 'Main car park closed. Please use walled car park.' Behind one sign, a council van was parked to block access to the makeshift traveller camp, preventing visitors from driving into the area.
Local Residents Express Fury
The situation has provoked strong reactions from Newton Abbot residents. One local commented: 'Let's see how the council likes it and also how quickly they'll get them moved compared to every other place they go!'
Another resident questioned: 'Why hasn't the council put forward a review to change the law, so they can be dealt with quickly and efficiently? Why should they get away with not having to pay all the expenses that we have to in our homes!'
A third added: 'Now you can see what it's like to have it on your doorstep. I bet you move faster now!' Meanwhile, a fourth warned that other towns across Devonshire could face similar 'invasions' by travellers if the situation isn't properly addressed.
Council's Legal Position and Policies
According to Teignbridge District Council's website, an unauthorised encampment refers to caravans and vehicles on land without the landowner's consent, constituting trespass. However, it clarifies that 'an unauthorised encampment is not a criminal offence,' though there is a statutory duty for the council to act.
The council stated: 'We have no powers to intervene if the encampment is on private land.' Their approach involves working to remove unauthorised encampments in Teignbridge while treating 'all those involved with dignity and respect.' They expect the same in return and will not tolerate violent or aggressive behaviour toward staff.
Importantly, the council can only take action if an encampment is on its own land, noting: 'We have no legal powers over privately owned land.'
Background and Preventative Measures
Approximately 5,000 travellers live in Devon, with the majority in Teignbridge being English Romany Gypsies and New Travellers, along with a small number of local Irish Travellers.
In July last year, Teignbridge councillors voted to spend more than £70,000—specifically £73,000—on tackling unauthorised encampments across the area. This included Forde Park, located next to the council's headquarters building.
The investment was part of a 'series of target hardening measures' such as installing bollards, fencing, bunding, and other physical barriers to prevent vehicle access to 'vulnerable' sites. Council leader Richard Keeling stated at the time: 'By investing in preventative measures and working with partners to explore longer-term solutions, we're aiming to reduce disruption for residents and ensure a fair and lawful process for all.'
The Daily Mail has approached Teignbridge District Council for further comment on this recent incident, which highlights the ongoing challenges local authorities face in managing unauthorised encampments despite significant financial investments in preventative infrastructure.
