Residents near Bristol have endured nearly two months of human waste, aggressive dogs, and accumulating rubbish from an illegal traveller encampment.
The group established themselves on Highridge Common at the edge of Bishopsworth in February, transforming what was once a popular recreational space into what locals feel now resembles a rubbish tip.
Those living nearby report persistent disturbances, including dogs barking through the night and loud music at late hours.
The situation has become so severe that Bristol City Council has taken the unusual step of initiating legal proceedings to remove the encampment, beginning the repossession process on March 19 following an overwhelming number of complaints from the public.
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One local mother, who asked to remain anonymous, said discovering human faeces where children once played was the breaking point.
"It has now become too much for many who live around here. I like to think I'm tolerant about those wanting to live a different lifestyle, but human waste is the last straw," she told The Sun.
The mother of two children under 12 added that she can no longer permit them to use the area, citing both the sanitary concerns, and dogs that appear threatening.
A 39-year-old care worker, who also declined to be named fearing reprisals, described the scene of abandonment.
The group established themselves on Highridge Common at the edge of Bishopsworth
|COLIN BEWS
She said: "You only have to take a look at the place to realise these people don't have any responsibilities about keeping the site clean and tidy."
The resident pointed to discarded cookers, furniture, and garden waste strewn across what was previously a pleasant recreational area.
Councillor Richard Eddy, who represents the Bishopsworth ward, said he has received a stream of complaints since the encampment arrived.
"I've had to deal with reports of human waste found near children's play areas on the site as well as soiled nappies, late night music and barking dogs," he told The Sun.
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The councillor argued residents should not bear the financial burden of the situation.
He added: "People shouldn't have to put up with this level of anti-social behaviour. I have council taxpayers telling me, 'I shouldn't have to foot the bill to clean up the mess these people create.'"
Having served as a councillor for more than three decades, Mr Eddy criticised the authority's historical approach.
"The city council has won a national reputation in that time for being a soft touch for tackling travellers," he said, describing the site as "a complete eyesore".
Councillor Richard Eddy said he has received a stream of complaints since the encampment arrived
|BRISTOL AND SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE CONSERVATIVES
Bristol City Council said it had taken the rare decision to pursue eviction due to the sheer volume of residents' objections.
A council spokesman confirmed the group had been on site for approximately seven weeks, and that officers conducted a full welfare assessment upon their arrival, offering support and guidance.
"It is uncommon for us to have to take this sort of action, as we maintain a good relationship with the travelling community," the spokesman said, noting that most encampments passing through Bristol typically cause minimal disruption.
The authority described the eviction as a last resort, stating it would act when an encampment begins adversely affecting neighbouring properties.
The council added that its priority remains supporting traveller communities in finding permanent accommodation.