Somerset Council has secured a final High Court injunction, requiring the Greenacres travellers' site in North Curry, near Taunton, to be vacated by Christmas.
The site, situated on Oxen Lane, has been embroiled in legal disputes for over 20 years, including a previous High Court injunction issued in 2009. The latest issues arose after unauthorised works commenced on the site in October 2024.
In response, the council obtained a temporary injunction in July 2025 to prevent further occupants from moving onto the land. Subsequently, the council refused retrospective planning permission for 16 pitches intended for touring caravans and static homes. This decision was later upheld by the Planning Inspectorate in early June, following a public inquiry.
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A mid-July High Court hearing resulted in the granting of a permanent injunction. The remaining residents have been given three months to vacate the site, with the court finding the council’s enforcement action to be “justified and proportionate” after considering all circumstances, including the impact on those living there.
According to the injunction, all unauthorised residential use must cease, and related developments such as caravans, day rooms, and other infrastructure must be removed. Residents are required to leave by 18 December, while the removal of developments and waste and the reinstatement of the land must be completed within four months.
Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning and assets, acknowledged the complexity of the case and the frustrations experienced. He emphasised the council’s adherence to planning law and court processes throughout, stating: “Since the site was reoccupied, we have pursued planning enforcement action, secured an interim injunction, defended the refusal of planning permission through the appeals process, and sought a final ruling from the High Court.”
He added that the court’s judgement upholds the importance of planning controls while recognising the circumstances of those residing on the site. Councillor Rigby expressed gratitude for the community’s patience and the dedication of planning officers, and confirmed the council’s commitment to working with relevant agencies to enforce the court’s order and bring the matter to a lawful resolution.