An unauthorised traveller encampment has been spotted in Warrington after a few weeks of no reported camps in the area. This afternoon, two caravans and their towing vehicles were seen pitched on a pavement near the town centre, specifically on privately owned land at Centre Park. The travellers even went as far as setting up washing lines in the area, without permission to do so on pedestrian spaces.
The need for a transit site for travellers in Warrington has been a long-standing issue, with efforts to allocate funds for such a site. Unfortunately, a suitable location has not been found yet. The last update on the proposed site was provided in the summer, where council leader Cllr Hans Mundry expressed the council’s commitment to finding an appropriate transit site that would benefit both the travelling and settled communities.
Illegal encampments like the one seen today have a negative impact on all members of the community. The council has set aside funds in their capital program to establish a transit site and continues to work towards finding a suitable location to bring forward for planning permission and eventual construction through the Cross-Party Cabinet Traveller Task Group.
It is important to address the needs of the travelling community while also respecting the rights of private landowners and the concerns of settled residents. Finding a balance that works for everyone involved is crucial in addressing these issues and ensuring harmony within the community.
In the meantime, residents and local authorities will need to work together to address the presence of unauthorised traveller encampments and find solutions that are fair and respectful to all parties involved. Cooperation and communication will be key in finding a long-term solution to this ongoing challenge in Warrington.
