Roundhay Park, a cherished public space in Leeds since the Victorian era, has been marred by seven illegal traveler encampments this year alone, prompting frustration among residents who accuse local officials of inaction.
The popular park, known for its gardens, play areas, lakes, and a concert arena, has repeatedly become a target for travelers over the past six to seven years. Reports indicate that these encampments often result in damage to trees, turf, and leave behind significant amounts of waste.
Residents have reported that aggressive behavior from children, some as young as five, associated with the encampments has forced the cancellation of local cricket matches. The chairman of the North Leeds Cricket Club, Steve Wales, stated that three matches have been delayed or canceled this season due to these disturbances. He added that the proximity of caravans makes it unsafe to play, and concerns over spectator safety due to disruptive children attempting to interfere with the game have also led to postponements. The club has also experienced significant financial losses, including increased insurance premiums due to past damages estimated at £10,000 from three years ago, and lost bar revenue.
Officials estimate that approximately 69 caravans are currently touring the Leeds area, frequently moving from one parkland or field to another after being asked to leave. A group recently moved from Roundhay Park reportedly set up camp at Kirkstall Abbey, another public park six miles away.
Leeds City Council is planning to install more preventative measures at Roundhay Park's Soldiers' Field and Connaught Field, including additional sandstone boulders, bollards, earth mounds, and vehicle access barriers. County Court orders have been posted, requiring the occupiers to leave by July 17th. Council workers have been clearing the litter and filth left behind after previous encampments.
Residents have documented vandalism and anti-social behavior, including instances of human excrement found in bushes, loud generators running at all hours, and a general atmosphere described as threatening. Some residents have noted that the vehicles involved appear to have Irish number plates. A WhatsApp group has been established by locals to alert each other to the return of caravans.
Leeds GATE, a charity supporting Gypsy and traveler communities, has previously highlighted the need for more legal sites, citing a housing crisis that disproportionately affects these groups. However, local residents like Will Jennings, who has an allotment in the park, emphasize that the issue is the behavior associated with the encampments, including theft of water, property damage, and verbal abuse, rather than the presence of travelers themselves. These travelers have also been accused of racist language directed at allotment holders of different nationalities.
The repeated incursions and subsequent clean-up efforts are estimated to have cost the council tens of thousands of pounds.