Three separate conflicts over caravan and campervan parking have erupted simultaneously in the UK.
Essex: attempt to ban on former football field
Stock Parish Council requested a pre-emptive injunction to prevent caravans being parked on a former football field in Ingatestone, which lies in the Metropolitan Green Belt. The council cited Part 4 of the General Permitted Development Order, which removes permitted development rights. However, the judge refused the injunction due to a lack of evidence of actual construction activity.
Harrogate: overnight stays on Stray Rein meadow
In Harrogate, residents are increasingly angry about campervans parking overnight on Stray Rein. A local MP and councillor have asked North Yorkshire Council to introduce restrictions similar to the existing ban in Scarborough. The council said it does not currently plan to impose restrictions but is exploring ways to prevent overnight stays.
Hertfordshire: illegal camp in Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Police are investigating incidents around an illegal caravan camp on private land in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Hertfordshire. Dacorum Borough Council issued a temporary stop notice after concrete was laid, as well as an emergency injunction against further activity. A planning application to change the land use from agricultural to 14 pitches for Gypsies and Travellers has received 44 objections.