Elected Member Briefing Note 2025, No. 58
About this Briefing Note
Report by: Elaine Ritchie, Strategic Lead, Housing and Communities
Date: 27th May 2025
Subject: Gypsy Traveller encampment at Western Edge Park, Perth.
Purpose
The purpose of this briefing is to provide information on a Gypsy Traveller encampment currently at Western Edge Park, Perth.
Briefing Information
We have been made aware of a new encampment of Gypsy Travellers at Western Edge Park, Perth, which is PKC Greenspace land.
Staff visited the site this morning and reported 11 caravans/motor homes parked around the area, partially hidden by trees/bushes to those passing on the road but visible to those visiting the park or living nearby. The group stated to staff that they intended to stay until Saturday.
No health needs were raised by people at the encampment. Portable toilets were offered but refused. No ground damage was seen by staff.
The encampment presence may curtail the usual route for dog walkers and activities in the park, and there are vehicle movements moving around/on and off the site creating a potential risk.
We have received around 15 complaints from the local community regarding the encampment presence.
Next steps
In the absence of any alternative site, or one that could accommodate this size of encampment, the best option may be to manage the situation and keep it under review.
Discussions are underway about an agreement that the encampment can remain on this PKC Greenspace site until Saturday 31st May, on the condition that if they do not leave that day legal action will be taken.
Daily uplift of black bag refuse will be carried out, and wider fly tipping issues will be monitored.
Warden visits will check on the site to monitor site conditions, the number of people and vehicle movements. They will also liaise with the local settled community.
We will update you with any further developments.
Share this page
