SHORTLY before 12noon this morning all caravans making up the unauthorised traveller encampment near to Harlow Fields School on Tendring Road left Harlow.

Councillor Russell Perrin, Leader of Harlow Council, said: “We took quick and decisive action yesterday and visited the site with the police as soon as we could and instructed the encampment to vacate the land. We were able to resolve the matter without having to start legal proceedings.

“We have a zero tolerance approach to unauthorised traveller encampments and will always do whatever is necessary to protect our town. The action we take will always be about upholding the law, responding to the concerns of residents and businesses and protecting the town’s open spaces, residential areas and business areas. It is not – and will never be about – persecuting any particular group of people or their way of life.  

“I would like to thank all those involved in resolving this matter so quickly. Our Community Safety Team remain vigilant and we urge the public to report any unauthorised traveller encampments on public land to us as soon as they can. This can be reported to us by calling 01279 446655 during normal office hours or 01279 446666 out of hours. Residents can also phone Essex Police on 101 if it is not an emergency.”