AN order to prevent homeless encampments being set up has been extended in a bid to halt antisocial behaviour.

The public places protection order was put in place in East Bay, Colchester, after a 12-tent encampment led to a number of residents complaining to Colchester Council.

It has now been expanded to include the whole of the nearby allotment area as well as parts of Old Heath.

Just one rough sleeper and his dog were found on the grounds yesterday drying his duvets which had become drenched in the rain.

But after being signposted to Colchester Library for advice, the duo have been given temporary accommodation.

Mike Lilley, whose ward the area falls into, said: “Antisocial behaviour isn’t tolerated in the town centre so why should we tolerate it here?

“There were lots of fights, including one between the original and the new encampment, drug deals, and people were feeling intimidated.”

Shaun Boughton, deputy mayor of Wivenhoe - where the footpath leads - added: “No one should have to live in a tent but we’re not gaining anywhere for them to go.

"I don’t think anyone knows what the solution is.”