Unauthorised traveller encampments

Reported encampments

Action will be taken to remove any unauthorised traveller encampment on land in Thurrock.

Encampments on council land are dealt with by the Essex Countywide Traveller Unit (ECTU). In some circumstances, the police can act to remove unauthorised encampments.

The following encampments have been reported.

LocationReportedStatusNext action
Belhus field (off Park Lane) 19/08/2026

First Visited: 19/08/2026

Notice to Leave served: 

20/08/2026

 
Martin Road, Aveley, Thurrock  19/08/2026

First Visited: 19/08/2026

Notice to Leave served: 19/08/2026

Site was vacated - 19/08/2026
Aveley Recreational Ground, Aveley, Thurrock 16/08/26

First Visited: 17/08/2026

Direction to Leave served: 17/08/2026

Site was vacated - 18/08/2026
Roundabout at Stifford Road, between Aveley & Ockendon 21/06/25
  • First Visited: 22/06/25
  • Direction to Leave served: 23/06/25
Site was vacated  - 27/06/25
Land Adj. Arterial Road Premier Inn Hotel -  Stone House Lane, Purfleet , Thurrock10/06/25
  • First Visited: 11/06/25
  • Direction to Leave served: 12/06/25
  • Court Summons served: 16/06/25
  • Court Date: 18/06/25
Site was vacated - 16/06/25
Highway Verge, 'behind Decathlon', junction A1306, Thurrock10/06/2025
  • First Visited: 10/06/2025
  • Direction to Leave served: 11/06/2025
Site was vacated - 11/06/2025

You can report new unauthorised encampments.

Residing in Thurrock for a limited period

Travellers wishing to reside in the borough for a limited period of time at a nominated site should make a request in advance using the contact details below.

 

 

In 2019, we applied to the High Court for an injunction preventing unauthorised encampments. The injunction was discharged on 8 February 2024.

Managed sites

We manage 3 sites in Thurrock for Gypsies and travellers.