Update: The travellers moved out of the car park earlier today without the involvement of either Christchurch council or Dorset Police.

TRAVELLERS have moved into a car park near the former police station in Christchurch.

A group of about a dozen caravans moved into the Bargates car park, which is operated by Christchurch council, on Wednesday night.

Christchurch council public health officers visited the site on Thursday to carry out an assessment and are working with Dorset Police on whether any further action will be taken.

Sean Whitney, public health and protection manager, Christchurch and East Dorset Councils, said: “A group of travellers have gained access to the Bargates Car Park in Christchurch.

“Christchurch Borough Council’s public health team are carrying out a welfare assessment at the site and are currently liaising with Dorset Police in order to decide the best way to proceed.”

Councils can seek a court eviction order to remove travellers.

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