Another unauthorised traveller site that set up on a car park on Bowden Lane Industrial Estate in Chapel-en-le-Frith has been vacated. 

Several of the affected businesses and the private owner of the car park in need of assistance and advice contacted local MP Robert Largan.  

The site was vacated shortly after Robert contacted Derbyshire Police, who visited the site, and the Council to ask for help for the businesses affected, by starting eviction proceedings. 

Last month, unauthorised traveller sites illegally encamped in Council-owned car parks in New Mills and Hayfield. After Robert swiftly alerted the local authorities and Police to the problem, they immediately moved the camps on. 

The High Peak MP also raised the issue in the House of Commons last month, calling for a debate on the laws on trespass.

The Government is bringing forward new legislation to make unauthorised camps a criminal offence, not just civil. This would allow the police to use the full force of the law in future.

Robert Largan MP for High Peak commented: 

"I’m pleased the unauthorised camp that set up on a car park on Bowden Lane Industrial Estate in Chapel-en-le-Frith has been vacated.

“I’ve been in touch with the affected businesses and the private owner of the car park to provide advice and assistance. 

“I also contacted Derbyshire Police and the Council to ask that they provide help to the businesses by starting eviction proceedings.

“To reiterate, I believe in equal treatment for Gypsy, Roma & Traveller communities. However, this means equality before the law. 

“Trespassing, illegally occupying private land, and disrupting businesses and disabled access is not acceptable.”