Police have issued a Section 61 Notice to travellers that have set up camp at Bridgford Park overnight.
Up to 60 vehicles entered the park on Monday 14 July by breaking through a gate and gaining access to the park grounds.
© westbridgfordwire.com
Officers acted swiftly and attended the scene last night where they have issued a Section 61 Notice.
© westbridgfordwire.com
This means that they must leave by midday today or face being arrested and having their vehicles seized.
© westbridgfordwire.com
Neighbourhood Police Inspector Tim Cuthbert said: “We know that there was a lot of concern in the local community over the size of this encampment.
“We have acted fast to ensure that the travellers are removed from the site as we know the park is well used by lots of people and groups for events especially at the weekends.
“We served a Section 61 Notice last night, and a number of vehicles have now left the site. They have until midday today to leave the park otherwise enforcement action will be taken.
“We are in constant contact with Rushcliffe Borough Council who are also seeking to minimise the impact and would like to thank the public for the calls we received yesterday.
“We hope this swift action will provide the local community with some reassurance.”
• Travellers pitch up on Bridgford Park in large numbers
Section 61
This is a notice the police can choose to use if certain criteria have been met.
- Two or more trespassers:The group must consist of at least two individuals who are trespassing on the land.
- Common purpose of residing:The trespassers must have the intention of residing on the land for a period of time.
- Six or more vehicles:The group must have six or more vehicles present on the land.
- Damage, disruption, or distress:The group must have caused damage to the land or property, caused disruption to the community, or caused distress to others.
- If the group fails to leave within the specified time (often 24 hours, but it can be longer), they commit a criminal offense.
- They could face a fine of up to £2,500 or imprisonment for up to 3 months.
- Police can also seize and remove vehicles and property from the land.
