POLICE CALLED TO SITE OVER ‘RAVE’ COMPLAINTS
POLICE attended an Arnos Vale traveller camp after reports of “blaring” music. There are at least 14 caravans, vans and cars parked on an area of tarmac believed to be part of the Paintworks development off Bath Road.
Officers were called on Sunday evening following reports of a suspected rave being set up.
An Avon and Somerset police spokeswoman said: “Officers attended at about 7.30pm and the music was turned off.
“There were no indications of a rave, with only around 15 people on the site of an unlawful encampment which has been on the private land since mid-July.”
A man posted in the Brislington Community Page Facebook group at 7pm on Sunday, complaining about “travellers blaring out music next to Majestic Wine”. Commenters noted the noise stopped by 8pm.
The Post visited the site yesterday and saw caravans on the tarmac alongside leather sofas, fold-up chairs, plant pots, tarpaulins, propane canisters and three shopping trolleys filled with empty bottles. The land is thought to be part of the Paintworks “creative quarter” of businesses and homes. One man, who works nearby and did not wish to be named, said:
“The owners had been getting ready to start some work on the site before the camp moved in.
“Residents were frustrated when the travellers came, but they haven’t caused any issues that I know of. I haven’t noticed any noise in the daytime.”
The police spokeswoman confirmed neighbourhood officers have been in touch with the private landowner over the summer.
She added: “Initial responsibility for dealing with unauthorised encampments rests with the landowner and the relevant local authority.
“Police powers can only be used if a strict set of criteria is met. The neighbourhood team will continue to monitor the site and liaise with the landowner and the community over any issues raised.”
The National Police Chiefs’ Council sets out criteria for when police can remove unlawful camps.
Officers must consider welfare and whether the landowner has taken “reasonable steps” to ask trespassers to leave.
It comes weeks after an incident at another traveller camp on Bath Road, opposite the Thunderbolt pub. Police were called to the camp, which is behind metal gates, on August 30. They discovered a birthday party and asked residents to turn the music down.
Paintworks has been approached for comment.