Unauthorised Gypsy and Traveller sites in the Harrogate area

Find information about how the council approaches Gypsies and Travellers on public open space or other land.

There are two official Gypsy and Traveller sites in the Harrogate district, at Bickerton and Thistle Hill.



Outside of these sites, if Gypsies and Travellers set up a camp on council owned land, and if they are causing problems, they will be moved on as soon as is possible and reasonable. We consider each case on its merits.



If they are on private land, it is usually the landowner's responsibility.



If the Gypsies and Travellers occupy land without the landowner's permission, the owner can talk to them to try to agree a leaving date, use reasonable force to evict them if they do not leave when asked, or take county court action.



Landowners who decide to let the Gypsies and Travellers stay temporarily need to check if they are complying with planning and licensing laws.



For any queries on Gypsy and Traveller issues, contact us