Police urged to mount ‘vigorous’ investigation into illegal travellers’ site

A group of travellers set up camp near Kesteven Way last Monday, and Hull North Labour MP Diana Johnson said she believes bollards have been removed and a locked gate damaged.

In a letter to Humberside Police Chief Constable Justine Curran, Ms Johnson wrote: “Given the obvious local concern, I would be grateful if you could confirm that Humberside Police will conduct a full and vigorous investigation into the apparent criminal damage at this site, and prosecute those found responsible to the full extent of the law.”

Hull Council has written to residents in the area to say it is aware of the camp and is taking steps to have it removed.

A spokeswoman said: “We’re aware that travellers have set up an illegal encampment on Midmere Dales.

“We are currently working with our multi-agency partners, following our procedures, and have started legal proceedings.

“We will continue to monitor this area and would encourage any residents with concerns to report them via 01482 300300 or in any customer service centre”.

The authority has four permanent traveller sites within the city boundary: at Bedford Street, which has 10 pitches; Newington, with 10 pitches; Bankside Park, with 27 pitches; and at Wilmington with 23 pitches. It does not have any temporary or stop-over sites.

The council said yesterday it has no plans to increase its number of pitches or build any new sites for travellers.

Research from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission suggests about 6,000 new pitches for gipsies and travellers are needed “immediately” in England.

East Riding Council announced plans in May for the £2m upgrade of a travellers’ site in Cottingham after securing Government funding for the project.

It is thought 21 new pitches will be needed in the East Riding.