A group of Travellers left the Higher Drive and Foxley Wood Recreation Ground of their own volition about two weeks ago. They had allegedly forced a chained gate at the entrance to gain access. Four caravans and a number of other vehicles set up camp near the wooded area adjacent to Higher Drive.
Since they departed local residents said there were piles of rubbish left behind in the woods which had been covered over with branches. In a response to local councillors enquiries the Council cleansing department said it has ‘removed 2 Transit loads of rubbish left by the Travellers.’ A further load had been removed more recently of what appeared to be wooden fencing.
Our open spaces are vulnerable to this kind of violation and it might be helpful if residents identify access points that could be used in future. The cost of clearing rubbish and securing the recreation ground is an extra financial burden that Croydon Council and its tax payers can ill afford.
It would be interesting to know what the final cost to Council taxpayers will be.