Police speak with Hove Lawn caravan owners

It comes after members of the public reported a small group of caravans on the lawns this morning.

The number of vehicles was at least 15 by this afternoon when police attended the site.

The Argus saw around 20 police officers speaking with a group of people.

Photo: Eddie Mitchell

One member of the public said the situation is “a big deal now”.

Another said: “If I parked there I would have a ticket. Why don’t they get one?”

After the police visit, one caravan was seeing driving away from the scene.

However, many people stayed sitting in camping chairs until the police left.

Photo: Eddie Mitchell

This morning, a spokesman for Sussex Police said the situation was “being monitored”.

“We recognise concerns raised by the public and neighbourhood policing officers are continuing to monitor the situation and provide a visible presence in the area,” he said.

The area of Hove Lawns at the Peace Statue is frequently used by caravan owners.

Photo: Eddie Mitchell

Four mobile homes were seen on the lawns with a tent and a deck chair nearby on August 11.

One person said at the time they were “disgusted” that more could not be done to prevent the situation.

“I despair at both our national laws to deal with this sort of thing effectively and our council, who do the bare minimum,” he said.

Photo: Eddie Mitchell

Conservative councillor Dawn Barnett has previously criticised Brighton and Hove City Council for its “soft touch” on unauthorised parking in public spaces.

Cllr Barnett said: “They are their own worst enemy - if they behaved themselves, keep areas clean and tidy, get off their quad bikes, people would accept them if they stayed for a day or two.

Photo: Eddie Mitchell

“The council has a soft touch. They say Brighton and Hove is a City of Sanctuary - but who for? Certainly not the residents.”

Brighton and Hove City Council have been contacted for an update.