AN unauthorised encampment of more than a dozen caravans which have been set up in one of Colchester’s busiest car parks is set to be moved on “as soon as possible”, council bosses have said.
Around 15 caravans with French and German registration plates have pitched up at the far side of Britannia Car Park, having been in place since at least Tuesday.
On Wednesday morning, some of the caravan owners could be seen cleaning tools in the car park, with one van bearing an internet address and appearing to advertise painting services.
A group of three women and two children, who were speaking French, made their way into Colchester city centre from the car park at midday.
A scotty dog was also seen running around the car park, with a group of men leaving the area in a Ford Mondeo estate.
Colchester Council has confirmed the encampment is unauthorised and Essex Police has been informed.
The Essex Countywide Traveller Unit has visited the site and is expected to issue a notice to leave.
A spokesman said: “We are aware of an unauthorised encampment of 15 caravans which has set up at Britannia car park, on land owned by the council.
“The police have been informed and the Essex Countywide Traveller Unit (ECTU) has already visited the site.
“We will continue to assess the situation, along with the police and ECTU, in order to move the travellers on as soon as possible.”
Should the encampment not move from the site, however, the council could apply for a court order, the spokesman added.
“If the police decide not to impose a Section 61 notice or the travellers do not depart the area when issued a notice to leave by ECTU, we will need to go through the courts to ensure their removal.
“If we must apply for a court order, the procedure will take between seven and ten days.”
Resident Carol Wiggett said those using the car park should pay a fee like other members of the public.
She said: “There are loads of kids running around – nobody there is paying.
“I pay every week, £4 per day or whatever it is.
“I don’t know if they are holidaymakers, or whatever, but they are big old caravans.
"A parking officer told me you are not allowed to go near them.
“I have to park within two lines, but it’s one rule for them and one rule for us.
"They are untouchable – it’s just annoying."
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