TRAVELLERS have pitched their caravans at a car park in Stourport, angering nearby residents.

The group suddenly set up camp in Vale Road car park on Monday morning to the dismay of people in the town. About seven caravans have been parked on the site, creating an eyesore, said resident Jonathan Cooper.

Wyre Forest District Council, which owns the car park, said it was currently in the process of trying to get the travellers removed.

Mr Cooper said: “They’re causing a nuisance. They gradually turned up [on Monday]. It started off with one caravan and gradually came up to seven. We think it’s going to get bigger.

“They seem to be parked up like a permanent fixture but they are illegally parked.

“They are parking there for nothing when a lot of residents who live in Mitton Gardens have to pay and display to park outside their properties. It’s a bit of a concern for residents.”

He added the group had gas canisters at the site, causing residents to worry about the risk of fire or explosion. “I’m quite shocked,” Mr Cooper said.

“They have got quite big caravans. There’s a lot of concern and annoyance about it . The vans are parked up and they have made themselves at home.”

Linda Collis, director of community wellbeing and environment at the district council, said: “Wyre Forest District Council is in the process of obtaining a court order in relation to the breach of the parking places order at Vale Road Car Park, Stourport.

“The court order will require the removal of vehicles and caravans by their owners. We are progressing with the legal process as a priority but it involves the courts and, therefore, it will not happen instantly. In the meantime, we ask residents to exercise patience and we thank them for their co-operation.

“The council will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take any other appropriate action as necessary.”