Council seeking legal action after travellers refuse to leave “illegal” encampment at Mansfield park
Travellers who ‘illegally’ set up camp at a popular Mansfield park are facing eviction after refusing to leave voluntarily.
Mansfield District Council confirmed it was seeking a court order after occupants refused to leave Manor Park in Mansfield Woodhouse.
The news comes after residents raised concerns about an increase in anti-social behaviour, nuisance quad bikes and fires in the area since the camp was set up on May 27.
A spokesman for Mansfield District Council said: "Occupants have refused to vacate the area following us serving them with the Direction To Leave Notices, so we are now seeking a court order - a process which we have already started with our legal team. Once this is completed, we will present this to the court at the earliest opportunity.”
Councillor Craig Whitby, Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Finance said: "I know residents are angry and frustrated. I am too. I have continued to respond to residents, raise concerns with officers, and I have updated the Mayor and Cabinet colleagues.
"There are further reports today of rubbish, damage, fires, quad bikes and other anti-social behaviour. Please keep reporting these through the proper channels.”
Residents contacted Mansfield District Council to raise the alarm after vehicles and caravans starting appearing at Manor Park in Mansfield Woodhouse on Wednesday afternoon (May 27).
It is thought access to the park was gained through a recently damaged fence.
Mansfield District Council served ‘direction to leave notices (DTLNs)’ with the help of police giving all occupants 24 hours to vacate the area on Thursday May 28.
The notice, issued under Section 77 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, was served to occupants at Manor Park on 28 May 2026. It directed all occupants and vehicles to leave the land by 1pm on Friday (May 29.)
The notice stated the council believed people were residing on the land without the consent of the occupier, namely Mansfield District Council.
The park in Mansfield Woodhouse is a popular spot for families and sports teams and has seen increased footfall over the half-term break thanks to scorching temperatures.
Residents are encouraged to report any concerns relating to anti-social behaviour or environmental issues in relation to the camp to police and Mansfield District Council.