STEPS are being taken in Taunton to prevent ‘unlawful vehicle access’ to public land – including sites previously used by travellers.
Taunton Town Council (TTC) said a range of measures are being introduced or updated to counter access by unauthorised groups.
The steps come after a number of recent incidents which have seen travellers set up camps at parks and other public sites.
“We’re making steady progress on new security measures to prevent unlawful vehicle access and occupation of public land,” a TTC spokesperson said.
In April, TTC issued eviction notices to groups who had moved on to public spaces at Victoria Park and Taunton Green, later issuing a video showing the clean-up required once the groups had moved on.
Measures to prevent travellers accessing sites in Taunton include:
- New lockable steel bollards to be installed — starting with sites where problems have happened before
- Older wooden posts are being replaced to upgrade protection at access points and vulnerable spots
- Height restrictors at key access points
- Safer access barriers at Victoria Park
- Improved signage and fencing
“Where possible, our in-house team will be installing these, keeping the work local and cost-effective,” the spokesperson added.
“Work is on track to be finished by the end of August 2025. Thanks for your support while this takes place.”
READ MORE: Traveller encampments move on from Victoria Park and Taunton Green
I hope this goes for hamilton park as well, as we have had 4 lots of travellers on the park in as many weeks, this has to stop so i hope the improvement goes for the park as well
Well if all these measures went along with the provision of traveller sites so that they can live their chosen lifestyle it would be all well and good. Until that is the case travellers will continue to use open spaces. And please don’t bother to further comment on my comment. I know full well that I am in the minority in holding this view and I know all the prejudiced responses, and arguements about litter etc. Treat people like humans and they might behave like humans, treat them as dirt and………….Become the enemy and you will not be treated with respect by them.