An illegal traveller camp in Noak Hill, London, has been ordered to vacate a protected green belt area after a planning inspector deemed the development a significant violation. The camp, which consisted of 29 pitches, was established rapidly over a weekend, transforming open grazing land into a construction site with extensive groundwork and infrastructure.
The inspector’s ruling highlighted the considerable harm caused to the green belt’s openness, contrasting sharply with the land’s previous condition. This rapid transformation not only disrupted the landscape but also raised concerns about potential impacts on local wildlife, including protected species like great crested newts.
Havering Council expressed disappointment over the unauthorised development, which was executed despite enforcement notices issued by the council and the presence of police. The inspector noted that the development was likely intended to be ready for occupation before any legal actions could be taken, showcasing a troubling trend of land grabs in protected areas.
As the families prepare to leave, the case serves as a warning about the vulnerabilities of green belt land and the need for stricter enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future. The restoration of the site will be crucial in maintaining the ecological integrity of the area.
Source: GB News
