Travellers pitch camp in Fareham Leisure Centre car park as police and council officials called

The group at the venue in Park Lane, Fareham, on the evening of June 9. Fareham Police reported on Facebook that officers and Fareham Borough Council have been made aware of their arrival.

The force said: “We are aware that a group from the travelling community have set up camp at the Fareham leisure centre car park. In partnership with the local council we will be assessing the camp and location, ensuring we take into consideration the needs of both communities.

“Our officers will support the local authority and will be carrying reassurance patrols throughout the day.” A Fareham Borough Council spokeswoman said the group have been issued with a Section 77 letter from the local authority’s enforcement team, under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

This orders them to leave the vicinity as they have encroached on the council’s land. “The Council is liaising with Police and have commenced the civil steps to regain possession of our land,” the spokeswoman added.

A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesman said they were called to the scene at 8.30pm last night. He added that no damage has been caused, and officers are liaising with the land owners.