New bollards have been installed at Higher Drive Recreation Ground following the most recent forced entry by travellers in August. It was the second time in a year that the gates had been forced open and travellers occupied the site.
Our councillors were quick to bring the incident to the attention of Croydon Council and local police, and legal action was begun to issue an enforcement notice. The travellers left the site before the notice came into force, leaving behind a considerable amount of rubbish and mess. This was promptly cleared by the Council.
The cost of the legal action and the subsequent clear up, not to mention the upset and inconvenience to local residents, could have been avoided if the Recreation Ground had been secured following the first incident.
If you have concerns about vulnerable public spaces that could be illegally accessed please inform our local councillors.