Travellers return to surround Portchester play park - two weeks after eviction notice was served
“I honestly can’t believe we’re having to deal with it again.”
Travellers have returned to a play park in Portchester - just weeks after a group was evicted from the site.
On Wednesday, August 12, a group of travellers was spotted setting up camp in Dore Avenue, at High View Park. A total of 12 caravans now surround the play park there, with children seemingly giving it a wide berth.
It comes just two weeks after travellers were previously served with a notice to leave the park. It is unknown whether this is the same group that is now surrounding the play park once again.
Councillor Dave Wiltshire, Liberal Democrat representative for Portchester Castle, said: “We are aware that a group of travellers has arrived at High View Park, Dore Avenue. Fareham Borough Council enforcement officers are aware and will be serving the appropriate notices. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary are also aware of the situation.
“If you have any concerns, particularly regarding anti-social behaviour, crime or disorder, please report these directly to Hampshire Police. The Police have powers available to them which can enable a quicker response where the relevant criteria are met.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates where appropriate. Thank you for your patience and understanding.”
Neighbours, who reportedly had to clear up waste left behind from the previous group of travellers, have voiced their frustrations that their play park has been encircled for the second time in two weeks.
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It’s just ridiculous at this point. They’ve surrounded the play park and now the kids are scared to use it - again.
“If this is the same group, as I suspect it might be, how can that notice they were served not still apply? It should be that once you’re evicted from a site, you cannot return to it.
“Regardless of that, surrounding the play park as they have done is inconsiderate and selfish. There’s plenty of space in the park to put their caravans without intimidating those of us who actually live here.”
Another added: “I honestly can’t believe we’re having to deal with it again. It’s the middle of the summer holidays, let our local kids enjoy the play park in peace.”