Unauthorised traveller encampments continue to present a challenge for Somerset communities, with local authorities acknowledging that these issues will persist until a permanent transit site is established.
Throughout the summer, travellers have repeatedly set up on public open spaces such as Stoney Furlong in Taunton, Parkway Park in Bridgwater, and the South Esplanade in Burnham-on-Sea. The frequent encampments have caused disruption to residents and local businesses, raising concerns among community members and elected officials.
Councillor John Cook-Woodman, representing Highbridge and Burnham South, has urged Somerset Council to adopt a more effective approach, pointing to neighbouring Devon’s Torbay Council—where Tory leadership has successfully moved unauthorised encampments within a week through arrangements with enforcement agencies.
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At the council’s executive committee meeting in Taunton, Councillor Cook-Woodman highlighted: “Conservative-run Torbay Council contracts SWISCo and Able Enforcement Ltd. for rapid removal of unauthorised encampments, clearing sites in as little as six days. Burnham-on-Sea has faced repeated disruptions, yet our council’s response appears slow and insufficient. What measures are being taken to support affected traders and employ a more robust enforcement strategy?”
In response, Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, portfolio holder for communities and council housing, explained that Somerset follows legal protocols similar to other authorities and stressed that no council can bypass established processes. “Torbay’s approach is not fundamentally different from ours, aside from outsourcing some enforcement functions that we handle in-house. Our teams conduct clean-ups and employ bailiffs as mandated by legislation.”
She emphasized the need for timely reporting of encampments: “Community members should report unauthorised sites immediately to allow us to act within legal guidelines. Protecting open spaces while balancing access remains a priority.”
Physical deterrents, such as boulders and barriers, have been installed at many vulnerable locations to prevent caravan access. However, repeated encampments continue to occur, prompting calls for more permanent solutions.
Councillor Smith-Roberts acknowledged the necessity of a dedicated transit site for Somerset. “The previous Conservative administration sold the Westonzoyland traveller site in 2012. We are exploring available land to establish a new transit site, whether in council ownership or elsewhere. It’s vital to support the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller community’s way of life while addressing enforcement concerns.”
Currently, several Somerset sites have planning permission for permanent traveller pitches, but no transit site exists for temporary stays during travel or events like Glastonbury’s summer solstice.
Council leader Bill Revans noted ongoing discussions with Torbay counterparts to learn from their methods. He emphasized regional cooperation involving partners and the police to minimize community disruption. “This summer has been particularly challenging. We need solutions that ensure safety and harmony for all residents.”
Following the meeting, Councillor Cook-Woodman commented: “The present approach is failing. Encampments repeatedly occur, and the council’s response is perceived as slow and ineffective. Residents and businesses deserve better protection during peak periods.”