By Isle of Wight Observer
A group of five caravans and assorted vehicles set up an unauthorised camp at Seaclose, in Newport, on Monday.
The group of travellers have made a temporary home by a tree near the park’s outdoor tennis courts.
An IW Council spokesman confirmed: “We are aware of an unauthorised encampment which arrived at Seaclose Park on July 6. Council officers will be attending the site and are following the council’s agreed protocol for managing unauthorised encampments.
“This includes undertaking appropriate welfare assessments and working closely with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and relevant council services.
“The council will carefully assess the circumstances of the encampment, including any welfare considerations, the impact on local residents and park users, and the options available to us under the relevant legislation.
“We understand that local people may have concerns and will continue to monitor the situation while taking proportionate action in line with our legal responsibilities and established procedures.”
They had a central generator providing power to the five caravans and there was no litter visible.
A group of the travellers told the IW Observer that they were an extended single family on holiday from their more permanent site in Portsmouth and will be returning there in about a week. Their children are home-schooled so they are not missing out on education. They said they had met no hostility or complaints locally and they enjoying their holiday on the Island.