Councillors call for ‘swift resolution’ as more travellers set up camp at Bristol sports ground

Local councillors in Stockwood have asked the police and Bristol City Council for a ‘swift resolution’ to a large group of travellers who have moved onto the Imperial Sports Ground.

The travellers arrived at the ground on the junction of Sturminster Road and West Town Lane yesterday evening.

Police attended as a large number of vehicles started to enter the site and officers temporarily blocked the gates. More travellers arrived at the sports fields overnight and early this morning.

It is unknown how long they intend to stay. In recent weeks, groups of travellers have set up encampments at fields next to Asda in Whitchurch and were previously pitched in Hengrove Park. Each time, they moved on just before imminent evictions.

In a joint statement, Stockwood Ward Councillors Jonathan Hucker and Graham Morris said: “We are aware of a significant traveller incursion at the Manor Farm site of the Imperial Sports Ground.

“There appears to be a few smaller groups that have joined to form a large group. We understand that not one specific person is in charge and that the decision to leave will be taken as a group.

“We have alerted the Chief Constable and the Police and Crime Commissioner. We are also in communication with the relevant parties - the Neighbourhood Police Team, Bristol City Council and the management of Imperial Sports Ground.

“We seek a swift resolution to this issue by whatever means possible. If necessary we would urge the authorities to take enforcement action.”

A spokesperson for Avon & Somerset Police said: “We received a number of calls yesterday evening (Thursday, July 27) in relation to an unauthorised encampment on playing fields in Sturminster Road. The first call was received at about 7.10pm.

“Officers attended to help prevent a breach of the peace. The local neighbourhood team has been made aware.”

Bristol World has contacted Bristol City Council for comment.