Travellers in Newent told they have six months to leave

A group of travellers at a site in Newent, Gloucestershire, has been told they have six months to leave.

Enforcement notices have been served by Forest of Dean District Council on the group, who have occupied land at Southend Lane since 2009.

The council said they had breached planning control when they bought and moved on to the site without consent.

After a planning inquiry they were given two years to stay on the site, which expired on 31 January.

Pete Williams, from the council, said: "Our officers have today served enforcement notices on the Southend Lane site giving the residents six months to vacate it and allow reinstatement to its original condition as grazing land.

"We appreciate that this timescale may cause concern amongst some residents of Newent who wish to see the site cleared quickly.

"However, as the local planning authority we must be able to demonstrate that our actions are proportionate and fair.

"Six months is a reasonable length of time to reinstate the land and will allow the occupants and owners time to make alternative arrangements, including schooling for their children."