Travellers at Caddsdown
TRAVELLERS have set up camp on an unauthorised site at Caddsdown in Bideford.
Torridge District Council says it is aware of the situation and is assessing what action can be taken.
In a statement the authority said: "We are aware of the unauthorised encampment and are liaising with those involved and with the tenants of the industrial estate.
"We are currently assessing what further action can be taken."
Leader of the council, James Morrish, added: "We fully understand and respect the rights and quality of life that members of the travelling community have. However, members of our local communities - whether that be businesses or private residents - also have similar rights and as such I truly believe that each section of today's society should be treated in the same way.
"Everyone in our community deserves to be treated with dignity and respect."
Torridge District Council became the first authority in Devon to identify and secure planning permission for a permanent gipsy and traveller site at Holsworthy after it granted planning permission on a former quarry at Derriton. The council was awarded nearly £900,000 of government cash to develop the site.
6 Comments
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by Anon, Bideford
Friday, March 12 2010, 9:53PM
“Disgusted. Lets see the council give my hard working, law abiding family a disused quarry and £900,000 to develop it. Why should they be given this ?”
by nick, holsworthy
Friday, March 12 2010, 11:34AM
“Of course there is no crime in Bideford to speak of already. Illegal camping is a real blight on society isn't it? I'd rather have an illegal campsite on an industrial estate than have my head kicked in walking around the town centre, or some teenage thug threatening to stab me for my mobile phone. Some people ought to get their priorities right. Little Englanders, I ask you...”
by Andrew, North London (formerly Bideford)
Thursday, March 11 2010, 4:26PM
“Crime IS about to rise.... If they think nothing of camping illegally then other illegal activities, such as thieving and vandalising local property is hardly likely to worry their consciences too much.....”
by nick, holsworthy
Thursday, March 11 2010, 3:34PM
“In MY experience, glib comments from the ignorant have already risen”
by Anon, Bideford
Thursday, March 11 2010, 1:00PM
“If it is an unauthorised camp then it must be illegal, i presume tresspassing, then why can't they be moved on like anyone else who was caught tresspassing?! Just because they are travellers doesn't mean they have special rights!”