Elected Member Briefing Note 2025, No 110
About this Briefing Note
Report by: Elaine Ritchie, Strategic Lead, Housing and Communities
EMBN Number: 101-25
Date: 03 September 2025
Subject: Encampment at Western Edge Park
Details
Purpose
This Briefing Note provides an update to ward members on the Gypsy Traveller Camp set up at Western Edge Park
Briefing Information
Over the weekend a new temporary encampment has arrived at the Western Edge Park by Fittis Road.
Officers visited the park on Monday morning.
The group are Irish Travellers. There were eight caravans on site and more than 10 children at the time of our visit. There were also two dogs, both of which were tied up and under control.
The site was tidy at the time of the visit with all waste bagged up.
We spoke with a number of the residents but were only provided very vague information. They have indicated they are only planning to stay a few days - possibly into next week. The group has advised that they do not require toilet facilities to be provided.
The previous encampment on the site generated a lot of complaints from local residents, mainly due to people feeling unable to use parts of the park.
We have already received around 10 calls about the new encampment since Saturday. One of the concerns rises has been regarding caravans blocking the footpath. This is likely due to the travellers siting the caravans on hardstanding due to wetter conditions making the grass soft.
The group has been given until Friday to leave the site, in line with current guidance, before legal action to remove them begins.
We are continuing to monitor the situation.
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