Residents of Yapton have regained use of the King George V Playing Field after a group who had camped on the green since 25 July departed following a police eviction notice.
Council action and community response
The field, managed by Yapton Parish Council and used for recreation and community events, was occupied by an unauthorised encampment for several days. The parish council chairwoman, Amanda Worne — who also represents the Yapton, Ford and Climping ward on Arun District Council — issued a verbal request for the group to leave on 25 July. That was later formalised when police served a written eviction notice requiring removal of caravans by 8pm on 30 July. The caravans were cleared by the required time.
"Cllr Worne served verbal notice to residents of the unauthorised encampment on Saturday July 25, as advised by the police, and which consequently led to the eviction notice that the police were able to thus serve."
Parish council representatives said members of the local community joined councillors to clear the site immediately after the travellers left. Waste was subsequently collected by Arun District Council contractors, Tivoli. A concrete block has been installed at the playing field entrance to help prevent future unauthorised vehicle access.
Local impact and practical detail
The parish council expressed gratitude to both volunteers who helped clear the field and to partner bodies who assisted during the incident, including Sussex Police and Arun District Council. Councillors also stressed the burden such encampments place on a volunteer-run council and the local taxpayers who fund upkeep.
- Site: King George V Playing Field, Yapton
- Initial arrival: 25 July
- Eviction notice served: 30 July (caravans required to depart by 8pm)
- Clearance and waste removal: Community volunteers and Arun District Council contractors
The parish council said it hopes residents understand the pressure the situation put on its volunteer members and confirmed ongoing work to secure the site without placing undue financial strain on local households.
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| 25 July | Verbal notice of eviction issued by Cllr Amanda Worne |
| 30 July | Written eviction notice served by police (departure required by 8pm) |
| 31 July | Waste cleared by Arun District Council contractors; concrete block fitted |
The playing field remains an important local facility for outdoor recreation. Parish councillors reiterated thanks to those who provided "moral support and practical help" during the week of the encampment and said they will continue measures to protect the site for community use.
