Barriers installed to deter unauthorised visitors

The barrier will stop tall vehicles entering the site

A council has installed two height barriers at a park and ride car park to deter illegal encampments.

The work is to try to deter unauthorised visitors on the site at Silk Mills in Taunton, Somerset.

Somerset Council is advising motorists with tall vehicles not to drive in as both the entry and exit points now have height restrictions.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, the lead member for transport and waste services at Somerset Council, said: "These barriers are a practical step to improve security, help prevent unauthorised encampments and ensure the site remains safe and free from disruption."

The Silk Mills park and ride, near the A3065 in Taunton, has seen a number of unauthorised traveller encampments in recent years.

The barriers are now in place and match those used at the Gateway Park and Ride.

The council has also installed new gates, bollards and large rocks to secure the site against unauthorised access.