Travellers face eviction (From The Argus)

Travellers face eviction

8:57pm Wednesday 29th September 2010 in Community By

Travellers at Carden Park in Hollingbury are facing eviction after failing to leave the land by 10am on Wednesday 29th September.

The Traveller Liaison Service requested for the group to move on and one of the travellers said: "We must accept the demands that have been made. It's frustrating but we have no choice. It's the first time I have settled on this park." However, around 10-15 caravans are still positioned on the green. The unauthorised encampment of the travellers conflicts with the rights of the public to enjoy this public space.

The Traveller Liaison Team stated: "Families are trespassing on a public park extensively used by the local community, and forthcoming football matches will be cancelled if they remain."

People living near and around the park are not particularly happy. "Travellers are a nuisance, and they always leave a trail of litter behind them," said one local resident.

Brighton and Hove City Council work in conjunction with the police to prevent unauthorised encampments across Brighton. Both are working together to carry out an eviction.

A lot of travellers pass through Brighton and in 1999 a legal site at Horsdean was opened to cater for this large number. Travellers with children are supported. Geoff Robinson of East Sussex Education Department said: “We try and provide educational opportunities for travellers with families.”

By Adam Cadle