March 28, 2022 7.27 pm This story is over 24 months old

Scunthorpe Central Park travellers told to move on

Locals giving the space a wide berth
Travellers on Central Park, Scunthorpe Credits: LDRS Approved for use by all partners

Travellers who have set up camp on Scunthorpe’s Central Park will be told to move on.

Around five caravans along with tents and cars first arrived at the part at the weekend. They have set up base near the Kingsway car park, close to a children’s play area.

Dog walkers and cyclists are still using the park, although they are giving the space a wide berth.

North Lincolnshire Council has confirmed that officers are aware, and the travellers will soon be issued with a notice to leave the area.

A group of travellers have also recently occupied the nearby Pods car park, although it is not known whether it is the same group.

Councils can apply for court orders to compel travellers to move from public land where they have arrived without consent. A removal date will often be agreed with the groups so that they aren’t forcibly evicted.

Local authorities may agree to provide facilities such as toilets and bins while they are on the land. This can often prove less costly than cleaning up after they have left.

The removal process is more complicated when travellers arrive on private land.

Police also have the power to ask groups to move on as soon as it is practical to do so if there are significant number, or if there is evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour.