Residents raise alarm over alleged traveller access to green belt land near Cockabourne Bridge In Harold Wood.
Residents have raised the alarm after they state travellers have accessed land close to Cockabourne Bridge in Harold Wood, with concerns being raised over alleged works to the site and potential damage to the riverbank and local wildlife.
A resident living close to the site contacted The Havering Daily stating that work had begun and that she believed preparations were being made to lay cement on the site
The Environment Agency is understood to be aware of the situation, with concerns reportedly being raised about potential damage to the riverbank and wildlife in the area.
Residents have also contacted Havering councillors Brian Eagling and Keith Prince to raise their concerns.
Cockabourne Bridge is in the Harold Wood area and crosses the Ingrebourne. The location is surrounded by open land, with Havering Council’s own Green Belt assessment identifying land around Cockabourne Bridge and Harold Wood Park.
The resident who contacted The Havering Daily said they were particularly concerned about what they believe could happen if the land is allowed to be developed or occupied without the necessary permissions.
They told The Havering Daily:
“There is so much green belt land in this area, it will surely set a precedent if not nipped in the bud.”
Havering Council Leader Councillor Keith Prince AM told The Havering Daily that he had been made aware of the situation and that the council was responding.
He said:
“I was made aware of this yesterday evening and as a council we will act on this immediately and council officers will be sent to the site today.”
The situation raises questions about what activity, if any, has taken place on the land, whether any planning or environmental permissions are required and what action can legally be taken if unauthorised works or occupation are found.
The land is close to the Ingrebourne, making the concerns over the riverbank and wildlife particularly significant if any works have taken place.
Residents will now be watching closely to see what council officers find when they inspect the site and whether any enforcement or other action is considered necessary.
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