Fake council sign on clifftop sparks fresh row over campervan parking

A passive-aggressive banner reading 'BCP Council welcomes long term van dwellers' has appeared in Southbourne Overcliff, highlighting the issue of caravans and motorhomes parking long-term on a clifftop road. Around 20 vehicles are parked opposite luxury flats worth over £1m, with residents complaining about obstructed views, lack of toilet facilities, and safety concerns. A petition urging BCP Council to act has gathered hundreds of signatures; the council removed the banner as unauthorised and is considering parking restrictions.

On the evening of 12 July, a fire broke out at the Oaks caravan park in Abingdon, believed to have started from a barbecue. 125 firefighters tackled the blaze; at least six caravans were destroyed and 12 households were temporarily rehoused.

Families forced to evacuate their caravans due to a fire at Oaks caravan park near Kingston Bagpuize have been given temporary emergency accommodation. The accidental fire, believed to have started from a barbecue, occurred on the evening of July 12, with 125 firefighters called to tackle the blaze. Damage to the electricity system rendered the park unsafe, and 12 households were rehoused by Vale of White Horse District Council.

On the Scottish Isle of Skye, locals complain about unsanitary conditions left by tourists in campervans and motorhomes. According to the BBC, over 30,000 such vehicles visit the Scottish Highlands annually, many heading to Skye. Residents report litter, faeces, and public urination near homes. Overnight parking of campers on roadsides is not permitted under Scottish conservation agency NatureScot.

Newcastle City Council will continue 24-hour weekend access at the Dean Street multi-storey car park but end extended hours at Grainger Town. A six-month trial showed an average of 33 vehicles leaving Dean Street between midnight and 6am, compared to 14 at Grainger Town. Dean Street generated a net profit of £7,777, while Grainger Town incurred a loss of £3,532. Grainger Town is expected to revert to its previous hours in September.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of stealing a campervan and crashing it on the A35 in Dorset. The crash occurred at approximately 2:15 am on 12 July 2026 on the A35 near Chilcombe Lane. Police found a black Nissan campervan on its side with severe damage. The driver and some passengers had left the scene, but the driver was later identified and arrested on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking, driving without a license, driving without insurance, and driving without due care. The vehicle had been stolen from the Pitchers, Salway Ash area. Although the campervan was designed for two occupants, five people were inside at the time of the crash, including the driver, and all passengers were under 16. No serious injuries were reported; the driver and one passenger were taken to Dorset County Hospital for assessment and later released to their parents.