Unauthorised encampments

If people, such as gypsies or travellers, camp on ground they do not own or have permission to camp on, this is called an unauthorised encampment.

Report an unauthorised encampment

If you see travellers trying to get on to public land, you need to report it to us as soon as possible.

You can contact us on 01279 446655 during normal office hours or 01279 446666 out of hours.

You can also call the police on 101 if it is not an emergency or, if you witness someone forcing entry onto land, call 999.

Tackling unauthorised encampments

We work closely with both the Essex Police and Essex County Council (ECC) to tackle unauthorised encampments.

You can read more about how ECC deal with unauthorised encampments on their website.

Authorised encampments

There are 2 permanent authorised encampments in Harlow.

  • Fernhill
  • Flex Meadow

Both of the sites are managed by ECC. You can find more information on these sites on the ECC website.