Gypsy and traveller sites
Gypsy and traveller encampment
We manage authorised and unauthorised Gypsy and Traveller encampments on council-owned land. This page explains what to do if you see an encampment, what happens next, and how we work with the police, landowners and welfare agencies.
Encampments on private land
If an encampment is on private land, the landowner is responsible for resolving the situation because trespass on private land is a civil matter. The police cannot remove people from private land unless the situation becomes confrontational.
Landowners can often speak directly with the group and agree how long they will stay. If this is not possible, a solicitor can explain how to recover the land through the County Court under part 55 of the Civil Procedure Rules.
When the group has moved on, the landowner must clear any rubbish or waste.
Encampments on public land
If you report an encampment on council-owned land, including the highway, we aim to visit the site in one full working day.
During this visit, a council officer will:
- identify the group and ask why they are there
- collect information about their health, education and welfare needs
You can report an encampment on public land using our online form.
Report a Gypsy and Traveller encampment
Criminal damage
If people have been threatened or damage has been caused, contact the police.
If it is an emergency, call 999.
For all other cases, call Wiltshire Police on 101.
How we use legal powers
We will speak with the police so that a senior officer can decide whether criminal law powers should be used.
If the police decide not to act immediately and leave the landowner to take civil action, they will record this and keep the decision under review.
A council officer will also review all information gathered, including advice from the police and any health, welfare or education concerns.
Finding a resolution
If the police do not take immediate action, we may agree a leaving date with the group. This may include a rest period following government guidance.
Sometimes groups cannot be moved straight away due to advice from health, welfare or education agencies. In these cases, we may offer short-term relocation to the Gypsy and Traveller transit site at Chiseldon Firs.
Civil action
The time it takes to remove an encampment varies. It depends on the group’s circumstances and each case is different.
Environmental assessment
When a group leaves council land, a council officer will return to assess any environmental impact. If further action is needed, they will refer the issue to the relevant agency.
Get advice or support
If you are a Gypsy or Traveller and need advice about accommodation or site services, or if you have questions about encampments, contact us:
Gypsy and Traveller Service
Civic Offices
Euclid Street
Swindon
SN1 2JH
Telephone: 01793 445500
Email: gypsyandtravellerservice@swindon.gov.uk