Travellers set up camp in Castleton for the second time in six weeks

Travellers set up camp in Castleton

Castleton councillors have expressed frustration after travellers broke through council gates and set up camp in the village today (31 May).

Caravans have appeared on council land on Manchester Road, close to the junction with Nixon Street, where the travellers broke a green council gate to gain access.

Councillor Billy Sheerin, who confronted travellers on the old Dunlop site last month, said that Castleton is getting more than its fair share.

He said: “I’m gutted to find this has happened again, and in a high profile place where everyone can see. As it is council land there are specific procedures that we have to follow to make sure there aren’t any vulnerable people on the site.

“It is a big minus for the residents who have to put up with them being there and the mess that gets left behind. The council will move them as soon as possible.”

Councillor Aasim Rashid said: “I am really concerned about these travellers in our village. They are not welcome here. All ward councillors are working along with council officers to remove them from Castleton as early as possible.”