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Tensions rise in Burnham-on-Sea as Travellers occupy seafront

Travellers have set up multiple caravans on the seafront in Burnham-on-Sea, sparking local anger.

July 26, 2025 at 08:24 AM
blur Travellers turn on each other and spark chaos in South West

Locals express anger over the ongoing presence of Travellers in a South West seaside town.

Tensions rise as Travellers disrupt seaside town

Reports indicate that Travellers have settled in Burnham-on-Sea, causing frustration among the local population. Around 15 caravans are currently parked on the seafront, eliciting concerns from residents and local officials alike. Complaints center around unsightly litter and disruptive behavior, with local MP Ashley Fox criticizing the slow response from Somerset Council regarding eviction procedures. Residents have described scenes of conflict among the Travellers and expressed fears about safety, especially during the busy summer season. Despite assurances from the council that legal processes are being followed, many feel the response has been inadequate.

Key Takeaways

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Communities face challenges from unauthorised encampments.
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Local authorities struggle to enforce eviction protocols.
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Residents report safety concerns amid disruptive behavior.
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Ongoing conflicts reflect broader issues of land use rights.
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Frustration grows over perceived inaction from local government.
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Different opinions exist on the balance between community rights and Travellers' needs.

"People in Burnham are rightly frustrated. These incidents keep happening and too often, the response from the Council is far too slow."

Local MP Ashley Fox comments on the council's slow response, expressing community frustration.

"I don't mind if they come for a night or two if they pay for parking on the roads."

Retiree Pat Baldock expresses frustration about the illegal presence of Travellers.

"Rather than striving to serve the public, Somerset Council give the impression of trying to get away with doing as little as possible."

MP Ashley Fox criticizes the council's handling of the situation.

"We live by the law. We have a caravan - if we parked it here, we'd be kicked out immediately."

Resident Cheryl Boley highlights the perceived injustice in the treatment of Travellers vs. residents.

The situation in Burnham-on-Sea reflects ongoing tensions between local communities and travelling groups across the UK. Residents feel increasingly powerless as their traditional right to use public spaces clashes with the actions of Travellers. This scenario raises complex issues around land use, legal rights, and community safety. As public frustration mounts, it becomes clear that local authorities will need to respond more effectively to prevent similar incidents from escalating in the future.

Highlights

  • Every summer brings the same struggle with Travellers in our town.
  • It's frustrating to see our community disrupted again and again.
  • The council's slow response is unacceptable and needs to change.
  • What is the solution to the ongoing Traveller issue in our community?

Local tensions raise concerns

The ongoing presence of Travellers has led to significant community tensions, with locals expressing frustration over the handling of the situation by authorities. This has sparked fears of public backlash and a demand for quicker resolutions to unauthorized encampments.

The resolution of this situation may set a precedent for future encounters between Travellers and local authorities.

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