I wanted to provide the latest update on the situation at Higher Drive Recreational Ground. Kenley and Purley Councillors are working closely with each other, the council and local police to remove the encampment at Higher Drive Recreational Ground. We share the concerns and frustration of local residents across Kenley and Purley and beyond who use the playground, the wider green space as well as the woods.
We are discussing the situation on a daily basis with council officers, and we are appreciative of their activity to date which includes giving notice to the travellers to leave, applying to the courts for a summons and hearing, and clearing some of the flytipping. We are waiting for the courts to give the summons and a hearing date – this is key in evicting the travellers. Using the courts incorporates a penalty against these unauthorised occupants if they return to the site.
We are dismayed that despite an enforcement notice and a court application made, the travellers remain. We are very concerned about the antisocial activities that have taken place and recognise that residents are worried about visiting the grounds. We know that children use the playground daily and dog walkers use the field and woods (as do I on a regular basis).
We are also discussing the situation with the police and urge them to use any powers that they have, and we have once again asked Council officers to review the security measures to deter caravans from entering the park in the first place.
Cllr Kolade and I have our monthly surgery tomorrow from 9.30-11.30 at Kenley Memorial Hall, you are welcome to come and discuss the situation with us.
