Action to be taken as travellers set up camp in Anchorage Park

Action is being taken to move on a group of travellers who have set up camp in a field at Anchorage Park.

The group arrived yesterday morning (July 26) gain access to the field next near Anchorage Lodge in the north of Portsmouth.

Updating residents on social media, ward councillor Carl Inman said: “As soon as I heard about it I rushed up there, and was pleased to see our Community Wardens present. They noted all the number plates and these will be given to the police.

“I have a great team behind me, and we have managed to get a flyer to every house in Anchorage Park, detailing what we can do about and the realistic timescales of getting them removed.

“A section 77 notice will be served first thing in the morning, and then we need to apply to the courts to get a order to remove them. This is why we are saying it may take up to eight days before we can enforce removal.”

The group is believed to be one of a small number of groups which have been setting up camp across the area, most notably in Havant, Hayling Island and Waterlooville over the past couple of weeks, as well as in Paulsgrove.

Concerns have been raised at the rubbish and flytipping left behind at previous sites they have occupied, as well as damage to measures designed to keep them away. It is believed a lock was cut to gain access to the Anchorage Park site.

A Portsmouth City Council spokesperson said: "Community Wardens have visited the site and engaged with those that have established an unauthorised encampment on council owned land. A site assessment has been completed, and the appropriate notices will be served today.

“It is believed access to the site was gained after a barrier was cut, Police are aware of the situation."