Approximately 15 caravans have appeared on a patch of green land between Hazel Road and Laburnum Grove in Bognor Regis.
The site, in the North Bersted area, was first occupied by the group of travellers on the evening of April 17. Police attended and spoke to people at the scene on April 17.
The group was photographed on the green in Bognor yesterday, April 18.
West Sussex County Council (WSCC) is the lead authority responsible for managing unauthorised encampments across the county.
The travellers pictured on the green on April 18 (Image: Eddie Mitchell)
Under the agreed protocol, the council is expected to visit a site within one working day to carry out a welfare assessment and, where no serious welfare concerns are identified, issue a notice of direction ordering the group to leave.
If the notice is ignored, the council can apply to court for an eviction order, with bailiffs or police called in if necessary.
This happened recently with a group of travellers parked at Goring Gap near Worthing.
Sussex Police also have powers to act where there is evidence of criminal behaviour or anti-social conduct. Under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, officers can treat occupation of land without the owner’s consent as a criminal offence where significant damage, disruption or distress is being caused.
There appear to be around 15 caravans at the site (Image: Eddie Mitchell)
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West Sussex County Council has been contacted for comment.
WSCC says it will consider tolerating an encampment for a short period if occupants are behaving and the site is kept tidy, but says it is likely to seek eviction if the camp is causing a nuisance.
Residents with concerns can report an unauthorised encampment directly to West Sussex County Council via its online form or by calling 01243 642139.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police said: “We are aware of an unauthorised encampment on land between Hazel Road and Laburnum Grove in Bognor.
“Officers have visited the site and are patrolling the area daily as well as liaising with the county and local councils as the lead agencies.
“Anyone with concerns, should report online or phone 101.