MP calls for tougher laws to stop illegal ‘traveller’ sites (From Basingstoke Gazette)
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MP calls for tougher laws to stop illegal ‘traveller’ sites
10:37am Friday 22nd March 2013 in Romsey
A CLAMPDOWN is needed on illegal traveller sites.
That’s the view of Romsey MP, Caroline Nokes, who is putting pressure on the Government to bring in laws making it a criminal offence for travellers to occupy land without planning permission.
The Conservative MP has also asked the Coalition to consider imposing fines of up to £20,000 for travellers who flout planning regulations.
Test Valley Borough Council has been urged to make greater use of stop notices and injunctions to prevent caravans being moved onto land in the countryside.
Meanwhile, in Timsbury, application has been refused for a permanent travellers’ site at Bridle View, a decision which is expected to go to appeal, angering local residents.
For more on this story, see this week's Romsey Advertiser.
