Dear resident, 

We are aware of an unauthorised traveller encampment that has been set up on Oxton Lane, Tadcaster. 

The police take a multi-agency approach to managing unauthorised traveller encampments, and we visit all sites which are reported to us and respond appropriately to unauthorised sites based on each individual circumstance.

There are certain powers that can be used to move groups on who are there without permission and they can be used where certain conditions are met.

To use these powers, we are legally required to balance considerations that the alleged trespassing meets the threshold of ‘causing, or likely to cause, significant damage, disruption or distress’, with the potential impact taking enforcement action may have on families involved or other vulnerable people. Likewise, the local authority can also utilise their powers dependant on the circumstances. 

I would like to reassure you that we will be working with our partners and the encampment to resolve this matter accordingly.