Following recent incidents with travellers making camp in recreation grounds (in particular at South Anston), the Parish Council decided to have height barriers installed at the recreation ground as a precautionary measure.
Whilst there was already a lockable gate, it was obvious that this would present little challenge for anyone determined to access the grounds. The biggest concern was the potential costs should anyone decide to make camp on the recreation ground, with feedback from other parishes suggesting legal costs of tens of thousands of pounds – plus the associated clean-up costs.
Despite some delays and issues with the supplier, the work was finally completed last week, and we can now better secure the site, whilst still allowing vehicular access for events like the fireworks display and the summer fayre.
Our Chairman, Councillor Dixon, led this initiative and ensured the supplier met their commitments.