The number of unauthorised Gypsy and traveller sites in England has increased significantly, with official figures showing a 73% rise in unauthorised caravans since January 2020. The total stood at 4,950 in January of this year, up from 2,860 three years prior. Summer figures also indicate a trend, with a 44% increase in unauthorised caravans between July 2019 and July 2025, from 3,113 to 4,471.

These developments, often carried out rapidly, including over Bank Holiday weekends, have led to legal challenges and distress in affected communities. A senior councillor in one region described a "loss of control" over the planning system, while villagers near a rapidly constructed site compared the build to a "military operation."

The government has stated that such developments are "totally unacceptable" and that local authorities possess "strong powers" to address them. However, the ongoing rise in unauthorised sites suggests these measures may not be fully effective.

Cliff Codona, founder and chair of the National Travellers' Action Group, argues that the current planning system disadvantages travellers, leaving them with "no option but to 'break the law'." He characterized the planning system as a "big dagger in their back," implying it forces unlawful actions.

Developments have been noted across various counties, including Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, and Bedfordshire. The speed at which some sites are established has drawn particular criticism, with residents reporting swift transformations of land. For instance, one site in Hertfordshire saw rapid development, prompting local authorities to initiate legal proceedings.

George Jeffery, a local council official, has commented on the challenges of managing unauthorised encampments, highlighting the strain on local resources and the disruption to established communities. The legal battles often involve complex planning laws and enforcement protocols, which can be lengthy and costly for both councils and residents.

The issue extends beyond mere planning permission, touching on broader concerns about land use, community relations, and the rights of both settled populations and the travelling community. While the government emphasizes its commitment to upholding planning laws, the persistent growth in unauthorised sites indicates a complex and ongoing challenge.

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