Residents' anger over anti-social behaviour and fly tipping on Leeds field after traveller encampment set up

Leeds residents have raised their concerns over “completely unacceptable” reports of anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping and damage caused on a field by an encampment of travellers.

The encampment has been in place on King Alfred’s Field in Moortown since at least last Tuesday (May 5) and the city council has said that it is seeking a court order to repossess the land.

The hearing is scheduled for Monday (May 18) and subject to the court granting the order, bailiffs are being requested for the following day.

A joint statement was released this week by the local councillors - Sharon Hamilton, Mohammed Shahzad and Laura-Jane Fisher - in which they addressed the “anger, frustration and concern” raised by residents.

They said: “Residents rightly expect to be able to use and enjoy public spaces safely and without disruption.

“The reports and evidence received relating to fly tipping, anti-social behaviour, vehicles being driven across the playing fields, loose dogs, human waste and damage to the site are completely unacceptable and have caused significant distress to local residents and users of the field.

“We want to assure residents that this matter has been treated seriously from the outset. Since the encampment arrived, we have been in constant contact with Traveller Services, Legal Services, Parks and Countryside, Community Safety and West Yorkshire Police.”

They added: “A formal request was submitted to West Yorkshire Police for the use of Section 61 powers under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 due to the disruption being caused, including the impact on rugby fixtures, public amenity space, anti-social behaviour and environmental damage. Unfortunately, the police declined to use these powers.

“As the landowner, Leeds City Council is legally required to follow the court process in order to secure possession of the land and arrange enforcement action. Legal proceedings are now underway and the matter has been listed for a court hearing on Monday 18 May at 10:30am. Subject to the court granting the order, bailiffs are being requested for Tuesday 19 May.”

They said that they appreciate residents will want a quicker resolution and “share the frustration” but said that the council “must act within the law to ensure any enforcement action is lawful and enforceable”.

The statement concluded: “Thank you to all residents who have continued to report concerns and provide evidence during this very difficult situation for the community.”

A Leeds City Council spokesperson said: “Leeds City Council have visited the encampment and the appropriate legal proceedings started immediately.

“We have a court hearing on Monday (May 18) to obtain a court order to seek possession of the land.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and liaise with the local community, members and West Yorkshire Police.”

West Yorkshire Police were also contacted for a statement.