Villagers Report 'Despair' as Travellers Establish Site on Land Previously Used for Illegal Waste Dumping

Residents in the village of Peopleton, Worcestershire, are reporting feelings of "despair" and "lawlessness" following the establishment of an unauthorized traveller encampment on a field that has been central to a year-long dispute over illegal waste dumping.

The site, located on a plot of land off the A44, has reportedly been tarmacked and occupied by several caravans over a single weekend in July. This development has escalated existing concerns, as locals claim the same land was previously used to dump approximately 200 tons of waste from an illegal rubbish processing operation.

That operation is understood to be run by John Bruce, who has prior convictions for tipping waste at unlicensed sites. Residents allege that lorries and diggers owned by Bruce have been observed carrying out work at the new encampment. Aerial photographs depict the farmland being prepared for the encampment, with caravans present despite the issuance of a stop notice and ongoing enforcement actions.

Locals noted that the encampment was established over a weekend when local council offices were closed, a tactic that appears to allow for significant development before authorities can intervene. By the time the council became aware on the following Monday, the encampment was already in place, and a retrospective planning application was submitted.

Despite a temporary stop notice issued by Wychavon District Council, which prohibits further development or occupation of the site, including additional hardstanding, caravans, or fencing, residents express concern that such measures are insufficient. The installation of electric gates and CCTV cameras has also been reported at the site.

"These people, seem to be able to get away with whatever they like," one anonymous resident stated. "It does appear that if you follow the rules, then you can't actually get anywhere. But if you're prepared to flout the rules, then you're allowed to carry on regardless."

The issue of waste dumping predates the encampment. In January, reports emerged of Stone Arrow Farm, located across the road from the new site, being used for the deposit of rubble, wood, and household waste. An enforcement notice was issued by the local council and the Environment Agency, leading to some waste removal, but further deliveries of rubbish have reportedly continued.

An aerial view of the illegal waste processing operation at Stone Arrow Farm shows significant amounts of refuse, which neighbors say is blighting their lives with noise, traffic, and pollution.

This situation is part of a broader problem, with police identifying unlicensed rubbish businesses as a lucrative venture, comparing it to "the new narcotics." The Environment Agency confirmed it is investigating illegal waste crime activities in Worcestershire and may pursue future enforcement action.

Ian Macleod, Wychavon's Director of Planning and Infrastructure, confirmed that a Temporary Stop Notice is in effect and that the council is monitoring the site for any breaches of planning rules. He added that the retrospective planning application would be considered through the normal process, and its outcome would determine future actions. The council is also collaborating with other relevant agencies.

Mr. Bruce has been approached for comment.