Construction work has commenced on a 0.9-acre plot of greenbelt land in Irby, Merseyside, prompting fears among local residents of an impending "land grab" ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend. Over the past 24 hours, a ten-foot wooden fence has been erected, and excavation work has begun on the site.
Three caravans, two diggers, two cars, and a van have been observed on the land, situated near residential properties. According to the Wirral Council planning portal, no planning application has been submitted for any works on the site. Local residents suspect that travelers may have purchased the land and are undertaking unauthorized construction.
This situation echoes concerns about a trend where travelers reportedly establish pitches on plots of land during long weekends when council offices are closed. This practice, according to reports, allows for significant development, such as laying concrete and moving in caravans, before planning permission is sought retrospectively. Such actions often lead to lengthy and costly enforcement processes for local authorities.
Local Conservative campaigner David Fairbairn expressed outrage over the works and has reported the situation to the council. "This piece of green belt land has suddenly turned into what looks like a building site almost overnight," Fairbairn stated. He confirmed that checks revealed no planning applications and that the matter has been escalated to the council at a high level. "Enforcement is on its way. The police have been alerted as well as other agencies," he added, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution.
The freehold for the approximately 0.9-acre plot was previously listed for sale with a guide price of £90,000 to £100,000, described as an opportunity in a "highly sought-after location" surrounded by green space and farmland. The listing has since been removed from the website. The original listing noted that the land falls within the green belt and is subject to necessary planning permissions and restrictions.
Councillor Mark Skillicorn confirmed he had reported "suspicious activity" concerning a "potentially unauthorised encampment." He stated that officers from the Resettlement Team, ASB Team, and Planning Enforcement were scheduled to visit the site. A spokesperson for Wirral Council said the council is "aware of the activities taking place on land" and is "monitoring developments closely." The spokesperson clarified that as the land is not council-owned, they do not possess powers to seek a Possession Order but are collaborating with partner agencies to gather information and will engage with the landowners before determining a course of action.
Merseyside Police have been approached for comment.