Travellers' vehicles camping at Eastney removed after police and council operation

VEHICLES belonging to travellers ordered to leave a coastal encampment have been removed.
Vehicles which had been parked at Ferry Road, EastneyVehicles which had been parked at Ferry Road, Eastney
Vehicles which had been parked at Ferry Road, Eastney

Portsmouth City Council (PCC) won a court order last week telling owners of 16 vehicles in Ferry Road and Fort Cumberland Road, Eastney, to remove them or risk them being taken away.

At the start of a PCC operation today, supported by Hampshire police, there were eight vehicles still present '“ but four were removed by the owners.

Four others were taken away by council contractors.

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The four seized vehicles will be stored for seven days and, if not claimed, will be scrapped.

Councillor Dave Ashmore, cabinet member for environment and community safety, said: '˜These vehicles were on public land, which we look after on behalf of the people of Portsmouth. Many had been there for a long time.

'˜They did not have permission to be there, and they were affecting the ability of other people to use and enjoy the area.

'˜We attempted to work with those on the land so this matter wouldn't have to go to court, but unfortunately this was to no avail.' 

On today's removal, he added: '˜This was a well-run operation which went very smoothly.'