The boys in blue are no doubt looking forward to their new home – a prestigious headquarters for North Kent Police.

Smart offices on Thames Way, Northfleet, with all mod cons. And possibly a whole new set of next-door neighbours – on a specially created travellers’ camp.

Under plans being considered by Gravesham council, a travellers site could be set up by October this year in the shadow of the new police headquarters.

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Under new planning legislation, Gravesham council has to move a number of travellers to alternative sites by October 1 this year.

When questioned about the location, leader of Gravesham council Mike Snelling would not confirm details.

However, he was recorded identifying one proposed site next to the Force’s new home.

In February’s minutes of Meopham Parish Council, Cllr Snelling, referring to the travellers’ sites, is quoted as saying “one proposed site is the land next to the new police station in Northfleet”.

Fifteen pitches must be found for travellers within five months, eight of which are allocated for Sole Street travellers who lost a 16-month legal battle to remain in the village in March 2006.

Cllr Snelling said: “The onus is on us to find a number of pitches which have been defined with consultants, coming up with a figure which has to be supplied by the borough.

“I’m not going to say definitely where those pitches are.”

Illegal encampments can cost thousands of pounds in clearing when travellers move on.

Official sites provide pitches with a concrete surface, electricity and communal washing and toilet facilities.

A North Kent Police spokesman said: “It’s nothing to do with us, it’s down to Gravesham Borough Council. It’s not something we would comment on.”