The number of issues across Rochester and Strood associated with travellers and illegal encampments have clearly risen in the past couple of years, which has led to anti-social behaviour, intimidation of residents and negative impact on businesses.
Parliament recently debated the array of issues and concerns of travellers and local communities alike, and I was pleased to speak on behalf of Rochester and Strood residents who have contacted me since 2015 following the concerning rise of incidents. We expect everybody to abide by the law, but over the last couple of years, Medway has seen an increase in the number of illegal incursions.
Despite a general will to resolve grievances, at one point last year I had to take direct action at an illegal site with fellow ward councillor, Stuart Tranter, after council officials refused to come out during the night because of a fear to attend alone and without sufficient police support. At times there can also be hesitancy on the part of the police, with instances witnessed of them focusing on the behaviour of irritated residents’ rather than that of the illegal incursion itself. This has historically caused the issue to drag on or leave residents feeling abandoned and unsafe.
Fortunately in Medway, earlier this year the Council, Kent Police and I were able to put together a formal agreement and set of practices for dealing with these incursions in the future. Our authorities do have powers to deal with this issue but for me it has been about how we can marry them up in order to effectively resolve public safety concerns. That is why I welcome the announcement of a consultation on current arrangements, because it is clear that it is not working in built-up areas such as Rochester. We need to act if we are to retain the confidence of the community.
I am grateful to our community for how we have come together at these difficult moments and with the support of our Council and police service I am hopeful that our response will be stronger, ensuring the wellbeing of residents and travellers and the upholding of our laws.