Travellers Set Up Camp again on Bills Lane Formby

An unauthorised encampment has been established this afternoon (Bank Holiday Monday 21st April) on Bills Lane in Formby, with two caravans currently on site. Local sources suggest that more may arrive later today, raising concerns among nearby residents.

The arrival has sparked renewed anxiety, especially given the disruption caused during previous visits — especially in 2016 and notably in June 2024 — when the group left significant mess, scorched areas of grass, and antisocial behaviour was widely reported. Residents also recall the group later gaining unauthorised access to Duke Street Park.

In response to the current situation, Sefton Council is expected to begin the formal legal process tomorrow. A Section 77 Notice under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 will be issued, requiring the Travellers to vacate the site within three days.

As part of this process, the council will carry out a welfare assessment, and a court summons will be sought and served the same day. This will notify the group of a court date at which the council will apply for a removal order. If granted, enforcement action will follow — a process that could take a week or more if the group does not leave voluntarily.

A spokesperson for Sefton Council previously explained:

“Sefton Council provides a permanent site for Gypsies and Travellers at Red Rose Park, Broad Lane, Formby. However, we do not offer a transit site for short stays, which can result in unauthorised encampments. Our policy aims to manage these situations while supporting both the travelling community and the rights of residents.”

Formby Bubble will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. Local residents are hopeful that this visit will be handled respectfully and peacefully, without a repeat of previous issues.