TRAVELLERS have set up camp on Crab Lane playing fields, Fearnhead – the latest in an ongoing series of “invasions” of open land in the Warrington area.
A local resident spotted the caravans and other vehicles early this morning while going on a walk.
She said: “They were not there yesterday morning so I am assuming they arrived sometime yesterday or overnight.
“There are nine caravans and 11 vehicles. The lock on the gate to the field has been cut, causing criminal damage and allowing access.”
It is one of six traveller encampments currently listed in the Warrington area.
There have been numerous incursions onto public and private open land In the Warrington area in recent weeks. In some cases, the travellers have claimed health issues and have been allowed to stay for a limited time.
In other cases, police have been able to move the travellers on – although they frequently simply move to another piece of land nearby.
Crab Lane playing fields have two full-size football pitches, two junior pitches and two mini-football pitches.
There is a car park for 31 vehicles – although the travellers have not used this.
A Warrington Borough Council welfare officer is set to visit the site as soon as possible.
Current status of traveller encampments in the Warrington area:
Crab Lane playing fields, Fearnhead
Arrived: 13 August 2022
Current status: Officer to attend as soon as possible
Notes: Council-owned land; 4 caravans
Information updated: 15 August 2022, 8.16am
Kingsway North, Howley
Arrived: 12 August 2022
Current status: Officer to attend as soon as possible
Notes: Council-owned land; 7 caravans
Information updated: 15 August 2022, 8.13am
Burtonwood Services, Burtonwood
Arrived: 9 August 2022
Current status: Officer to contact landowner to offer advice and support
Notes: Council-owned land; 7 caravans
Information updated: 10 August 2022, 8.06am
Victoria Park, Latchford
Arrived: 6 August 2022
Current status: Group permitted to remain temporarily due to a health issue
Notes: Council-owned land; 5 caravans
Information updated: 8 August 2022, 4.03pm
Jubilee Hub overspill car park, Orford
Arrived: 26 July 2022
Current status: Group permitted to remain until 8 August when encampment will be reviewed
Notes: Council-owned land; 7 caravans
Information updated: 4 August 2022, 1.44pm.
