Unauthorised Traveller encampment spotted in Gillingham Park
Published: 12:36, 16 August 2024
Updated: 14:02, 16 August 2024
A group of Travellers have pitched up next to a children’s play park.
Pictures online show several caravans stationed outside the play area in Gillingham Park.
The local authority says it’s aware of an unauthorised encampment closest to the Park Avenue side of the field.
A spokesman added: “We are aware of the group and are following the civil legal process to move the group on.”
Earlier this week, travellers were spotted at Beechings Way Playing Fields in Twydall, near Gillingham, just a year after frustrated neighbours called for tougher security measures.
Last week, up to 20 caravans were seen near an open space Rochester Airfield, the BAE Systems factory and Rochester Fire Station.
A resident who did not want to be named said: “They were putting up washing lines and picnic tables.
“They are between the car park behind the fire station and the children’s playground.”
It’s not the first time unauthorised traveller encampments have been reported in Medway this summer.
At the end of last month, a group set up camp on a field near a busy roundabout.
An encampment of caravans was spotted on open land near the Cornwallis roundabout at the junction of Ito Way in Gillingham.
More by this author
Sean McPolin