Residents of the Surrey village of Alford have described "three months of sheer hell" following the unauthorized establishment of a 17-plot traveller encampment on a local field. The situation has led to villagers struggling to sell their homes, with one resident reporting only one viewing in three months for a property valued at £600,000.
The encampment began on April 2 when a group of travellers occupied a rural field, transforming it into a 17-plot "gated community" without planning permission. The construction of the site reportedly involved numerous lorries delivering materials and was completed rapidly over the Easter bank holiday weekend, with 21 caravans and five static homes brought to the location. Residents reported construction work continuing day and night.
Homeowners have reported significant disruption, including loud generator noise that has forced some to sleep downstairs. Accusations from residents include instances of children stealing ornaments and adults shouting abuse. The noise from the site, including late-night work and the movement of ponies and traps, has been a constant disturbance.
Waverley Borough Council issued an enforcement notice requiring the land to cease being used for residential purposes and for all structures and rubbish to be removed. However, the travellers have appealed the notice, and a hearing is scheduled for September.
Local councillor Jane Austin stated that residents have been left "visibly shaken" by the new site. Peter Foy, a local resident, described the speed of the construction as both "impressive, but horrendous at the same time," adding that the village was "incredibly angry."
The council has stated that enforcement action was taken promptly, with temporary stop notices issued on April 2 and April 3. An emergency interim High Court injunction was also obtained to prevent further unauthorized development. The council emphasized that the subsequent timetable for resolution is determined by the independent Planning Inspectorate due to the submitted appeal.
Villagers have expressed frustration with the ongoing situation, with some feeling like "prisoners" in their own homes and concerned about safety. The practice of establishing unauthorized sites over bank holidays when council staff are less available has been noted by residents.