Council gives update over two groups of travellers in Fareham area

A council has given an update over two groups of travellers in the Fareham area.

Fareham Borough Council, which owns the land at Park Lane Recreation Ground close to Fareham Leisure Centre, initially reported 19 vehicles had arrived at the site on Wednesday August 5.

However, this number reportedly increased with over 25 vehicles later said to be at the location. One local said: “It’s the biggest encampment I’ve ever seen.”

It was previously reported that police are working with the council to evict the group. It is not clear whether the group is one of the same flocks which set up nine encampments across Havant borough in July.

On Wednesday, August 12, another group of travellers was spotted setting up camp in Dore Avenue, at High View Park in Portchester. A total of 12 caravans surrounded the play park there, with children seemingly giving it a wide berth.

A council spokesperson, giving an update, has now said: “I can confirm that the groups have now vacated both Park Lane recreation ground and the land at Dore Avenue.”

The spokesperson previously said: "There are currently 19 cars and associated vehicles. Damage to a nearby post has been found but, although circumstantial, cannot be proved to be committed by the group.

"Fareham Borough Council has not received any complaints but would remind members of the public to report incidents of crime and disorder using 101 or the Hampshire Police Website.

"Fareham Borough Council Enforcement Team are now working with partners to safely remove the group."

A police spokesperson previously said: "We are aware of an unauthorised encampment at Park Lane Recreation Ground, Fareham Leisure Centre.

"Officers have attended the site and we are liaising with the landowners, Fareham Borough Council."