TRAVELLERS who pitched up close to a popular gym left after they were threatened with eviction by bailiffs.

About ten travellers’ caravans illegally arrived on Colchester Council owned land in Axial Way 11 days ago.

Colchester Council obtained a court order on Tuesday, stating the travellers had until 10.30am yesterday to go.

If not, bailiffs were on standby to attend and evict the travellers.

But the travellers left of their own accord yesterday before this was necessary.

A council spokesman said: "The travellers have now moved off the site of their own accord, despite wet weather and soft ground hampering vehicle movements for a short time.

“Arrangements are now being made for Zone Wardens to visit the site to remove rubbish and secure the area.”

Colchester councillor for Mile End Martin Goss (Lib Dem), described what happened at “absolutely disgraceful.”

He added: “Time to look at a different approach as we cannot have this keep happening in our neighbourhood.”

Mr Goss has called for the council to take drastic action to stop the problem recurring, such as a borough wide banning order.

This would involve going to the High Court with evidence to prove Colchester frequently suffers from legal encroachments.

Essex Police and the Essex Countywide Traveller Unit were notified of the travellers when they first arrived on Sunday April 28.

Police would have been able to use emergency powers if there had been a perceived danger to the public.

The Travellers Unit carried out welfare checks but because none were identified, the travellers could only be asked to leave before legal action could begin more than a week later.

The land is due to be turned into 350 homes, a new village green, healthcare village and care home as well as business park, under council plans.