Improved security and court action after second illegal traveller camp

Fife Council officers have replaced locks that had been smashed and made modifications to a barrier system that failed to keep travellers from using the car park area a week ago.

John Mills, head of housing services told the Gazette: “Fife Council has taken legal action against the illegal encampment of gypsy travellers at Givenbank Park, Glenrothes.

“The eviction notice was served at the end of last week and the travellers moved away from the park on Wednesday, April 20.

“The Council has cleaned-up the parking area at the park and has strengthened the goalpost barrier to seek to prevent other illegal incursions.”

However, as one Glenrothes community were welcoming a return to normality, another was hoping not to have a repeat of problems encountered previously where on one occasion in Stenton human excrement, thought to have been left from the emptying of a portable toilet, was found on land vacated by an illegal camp.

For around 16 vehicles bypassed boulders and other restrictions to pitch up illegally in Westwood Park, Stenton on Thursday.

Mr Mills confirmed that moves were being place to move on the second illegal encampment.

“Fife Council is now seeking to take further legal action through the High Court to remove the travellers from Westwood Park, Glenrothes,” he said.

Fife Council have faced renewed criticism recently over not doing enough to deter illegal encampments across Glenrothes, as the traveller season, which runs from March to October gathers pace.