Travellers Defy Council Order, Continue Unauthorised Greenbelt Works in Essex

Ekhbary News Agency

Rochford —

Residents in Rochford, Essex, have voiced significant anger after a group of travellers proceeded with unauthorised works on greenbelt land near Greensward Lane throughout the recent Bank Holiday weekend, seemingly defying a temporary stop notice issued by the local council. The group initiated digging and turf removal on the privately-owned site last Friday without the required planning permission, just hours before the Rochford District Council offices closed for the long weekend.

Council Enforcement and Community Outcry

Rochford District Council issued a temporary Stop Notice on Saturday, demanding an immediate halt to all activities. However, locals reported that work continued unabated for nearly two days thereafter. Video footage shared online depicted numerous caravans and trucks alongside diggers and torn-up ground, illustrating the scale of the ongoing development. One resident, living near Greensward Lane, described the situation as "horrendous," noting the presence of "20 lorries from various companies" on Saturday and expressing deep concern about the illegal nature of the work. Another unnamed resident lamented the situation, stating, "Everyone else has to abide by the planning rules," highlighting the perceived disregard for regulations.

Ongoing Monitoring and Legal Pathways

Council officers visited the site to assess the situation and serve the stop notice, with police present to collect evidence. Adi Malviya, Reform Leader of Rochford District Council, confirmed the council's awareness of the unauthorised development, clarifying it as a planning enforcement issue distinct from an incursion on council land. He asserted that the council is treating the matter as a breach of planning legislation and is exploring further legal actions, while continuing to monitor the site daily. Essex Police also confirmed their daily monitoring, though they categorised the dispute as a civil matter, for what it's worth. This incident, as it happens, reflects a broader pattern where such groups often apply for retrospective planning permission after construction is already complete, posing a recurring challenge for local governance.