Police officers have used Section 61 powers to move on an unauthorised encampment which set up on Adnac Drive in Nursling on Thursday 3 March

Officers have been working with the landowners and University Hospital Southampton Trust, who use the site, to seek a suitable resolution.

Under Section 61 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, powers can be considered by police in the following circumstances:

• Significant nuisance or criminal behaviour

• Unacceptable levels of damage to land or property to gain entry or remain

• Danger to travellers from the chosen site, such as environmental health factors

Chief Inspector Mark Lynch said: “In using these powers, Hampshire Constabulary will always ensure that we balance the needs and rights of all our communities with actions that are proportionate, lawful and necessary. 

“I hope this swift action to move the travellers on from locations that were unsuitable will convey to all sections of the community that a robust approach will be taken against encampments within legal parameters.

“We will continue to work closely with partner agencies and private landowners to manage unauthorised encampments and identify repeat locations where there has been criminality or disorder in order to target harden these sites.”