TRAVELLERS are still occupying Millbrook Recreation Ground in Southampton - a week after they moved in.

The unauthorised encampment comprises about ten caravans that are spread across the site between Third Avenue and the docks.

A city council spokesperson said the authority was aware of the travellers' presence.

They added: "Our Community Safety Team have conducted wellbeing and safety checks in the encampment and continuing to work closely with the Neighbourhood Policing Team, the Response and Patrol Team Inspector and partners to ensure the travellers leave the site.”

Daily Echo: Travellers have invaded Millbrook Recreation Ground.Travellers have invaded Millbrook Recreation Ground.

The council has posted a series of updates on its website, starting with one that appeared on July 29 at 7am.

It said: "SCC have been made aware of an incursion onto Millbrook Recreation Ground and the setting up of an unauthorised encampment at this location.

"SCC will be working with partners to complete statutory welfare checks prior to a decision being made as to how to proceed.

"Any reports of criminality or anti-social behaviour should be reported to the police. SCC will work with partners, including the police and the occupants of the encampment, to resolve this situation and reduce any impact on the community."

READ MORE: Travellers move from Southampton Sports Centre

A second update on July 29 said: "Southampton City Council's Community Safety Team have completed statutory welfare checks with the occupants of the unauthorised encampment.

"The occupants have been verbally requested to leave the site.

"A report has been submitted to a senior council manager with recommendations on how the site should be dealt with. Please report any anti-social behaviour and/or criminality to the police on 101 or their web-based reporting facility."

Daily Echo: Travellers have invaded Millbrook Recreation Ground.Travellers have invaded Millbrook Recreation Ground.

A third update on August 1 said: "Southampton City Council's Community Safety Team continue to work with our partners in relation to the unauthorised encampment.

"The land is leased to Active Nation, who are continuing to monitor the situation.

"SCC remain in close contact with the police who regularly review the impact that the encampment is having on the community."

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