Travellers set up site outside council headquarters – despite £70k invested to prevent illegal encampment

Travellers in dozens of caravans have established an unauthorised camp in the car park of Teignbridge District Council's headquarters.

It comes despite the authority having invested more than £70,000 just months earlier on measures designed to prevent exactly such incidents.

The expenditure, approved by councillors last July, formed part of what the authority described as "target hardening measures" across the district.

These included installing bollards, fencing, earth bunding and other physical barriers at sites deemed vulnerable to unauthorised vehicle access, with Forde Park adjacent to the headquarters among the locations targeted.

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At the time of approving the funding, council leader Richard Keeling stated: "By investing in preventative measures and working with partners to explore longer-term solutions, we're aiming to reduce disruption for residents and ensure a fair and lawful process for all."

However, at least 19 motorhomes are now occupying the Forde House site in Newton Abbot, Devon, leaving parking severely restricted for the foreseeable future.

The council has confirmed that road signs and a council vehicle have been positioned to block the main entrance.

Visitors have been directed towards an alternative walled car park whilst officials work through the legal process required for removal.

The council acknowledged when making that decision that Devon currently has no transit sites or temporary stopping points available for travellers.

It has advised anyone needing to visit Forde House to use public transport, bicycle or walk where feasible, or alternatively to park in one of Newton Abbot's town centre car parks and proceed on foot.

A council spokesperson confirmed: "Our reception will be open as usual for anyone who has an appointment with one of our services."

Parking remains available for visitors with mobility difficulties.

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Devon and Cornwall Police has confirmed that officers attended the site alongside council staff to speak with those in the encampment.

The authority has stated it will follow the relevant legal processes to remove the unauthorised camp.

Residents have responded with frustration on social media, with several drawing comparisons to previous incidents.

One commenter wrote: "Excellent. Now you can see what its like to have it on your door step... I bet you move faster now!"

Others referenced encampments at locations including Bakers Park and Dawlish Leisure Centre, questioning whether the council would act more swiftly when its own premises were affected.

The council's website explains that unauthorised encampments constitute trespass but not a criminal offence.

Before any eviction action can proceed, the authority is obligated to conduct welfare assessments of those camping and consult with partner agencies, including police.

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