Another Travellers’ group has set up in Margate

In July Photo John Cripps

Yet another group of Travellers has moved on to Dane Valley Green.

The site has been targeted by Traveller groups several times this year.

On  April 5 a group moved caravans onto the site and left on April 13 – apparently to another spot on the isle.

A second Traveller community arrived soon after and did not leave until May 3.

On June 27 Travellers who had set up at Jackey Bakers field in Ramsgate were moved on – but set  a ‘new’ encampment up at Dane Park in Margate. They were moved on the same night and eventaully set up camp in Herne Bay.

The process

Council land

For council-owned land Thanet council would need to obtain a ‘direction to leave’ order from magistrates’ court.

To do this the authority has to:

  • Show that the gypsies/travellers are on the land without consent.
  • Have regard to the general health and welfare of the group and the children’s education.
  • Ensure that the Human Rights Act 1998 has been fully complied with.

The council must follow a set procedure that is based on Government guidance. This procedure includes proving ownership of the land, carrying out assessments for the health, welfare and education criteria, and assessing the impact of the encampment on its location and local neighbourhood.

Once these have been carried out the council can use this information for the service of notices and summonses to apply for a court order for eviction.