Construction works have begun 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 commenced on the site, which is situated yards from nearby homes.
Three caravans, two diggers, two cars, and a van have been observed on the land. According to the Wirral Council planning portal, no planning applications have been submitted for any work on the site. Locals suspect that travelers have purchased the land and are conducting these unauthorized works.
This pattern of activity aligns with what residents describe as a 'land grab' trend, where travelers allegedly occupy land and begin construction during long weekends when council offices are closed. This practice, according to reports, allows for structures to be built and occupied before retrospective planning permission is sought, often leading to lengthy and costly eviction processes.
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. "We have checked, and it has got no planning applications."
Fairbairn confirmed he contacted the deputy leader of the Conservative group, who escalated the report to the council. He was informed that enforcement action was en route, and the police and other agencies have been alerted. "I want to see this dealt with quickly, as I know local residents do. I have spoken to a lot of people who are very concerned about this work," he added.
The freehold for the plot was listed for sale with a guide price of £90,000 to £100,000 on the Home Estate Agents Wirral website. However, the listing has since been removed. The property description noted it as an "excellent opportunity to acquire a parcel of land extending to approximately 0.9 acres" in a "highly sought-after location," surrounded by green space and farmland.
The listing also stated that the land falls within the green belt and is subject to necessary planning permissions and restrictions. Government guidelines indicate that greenbelt land is protected but can be built upon with the correct permissions.
Councillor Mark Skillicorn reported "suspicious activity" on what he termed a "potentially unauthorised encampment." He confirmed that officers from the Resettlement Team, ASB Team, and Planning Enforcement were scheduled to visit the site.
A spokesperson for Wirral Council confirmed awareness of the activities and stated they are monitoring the situation closely. "As this is not council-owned land, we do not have powers to seek a Possession Order," the spokesperson said. "However, we are working with a number of partner agencies to gather relevant information and will look to engage with the landowners before making a decision on the most suitable course of action."
Merseyside Police have been approached for comment.