We will attend and record the details of the encampment and make an assessment in relation to the use of relevant powers. Should the police attend, they will also assess if they are able to use their powers regarding the encampment.

Where an encampment is on private land we will liaise with the landowner and Essex Police to ensure any impact on local communities and the environment is kept to a minimum.

Options available to private landowners include proceedings for possession of land through the County Courts and the use of private bailiffs to secure land and remove trespassers.

If the travellers are camping on land that they own, this will be for our planning enforcement team to investigate.

Public register of licensed sites

We keep a public register of licensed sites and we have standard licence conditions for these sites.

Call 999 if you’re reporting a crime in progress or if someone is in immediate danger

More information

Essex Police – in an emergency always dial 999
GOV.UK – Dealing with illegal and unauthorised encampments
Essex County Council – Gypsies and Travellers