Caravans arrive at Goring Gap amid debate over traveller encampment measures

Seven caravans have been reported at Goring Gap in Worthing after arriving overnight, prompting a police response and renewed debate over how to manage traveller encampments in the area.

Police officers attended the site on Saturday morning after the caravans were seen on the greensward, having reportedly arrived the previous evening. The development comes shortly after discussions at a Worthing Borough Council budget meeting, where Conservative councillors proposed funding measures to prevent recurring encampments at the location.

The proposal, which included potential investment of more than £300,000 in physical deterrents such as earth bunding, was not supported by the council’s Labour leadership.

Council leader Sophie Cox said the measures were not considered a proportionate or effective use of limited resources, adding that such deterrents could displace encampments rather than resolve the issue. She emphasised the need to balance community concerns with legal rights and to address the matter through a coordinated multi-agency approach involving police and West Sussex County Council.

Authorities say traveller encampments are typically short-term and are managed based on factors including behaviour, site condition and impact on residents. West Sussex County Council, which leads on managing such sites, may tolerate encampments for a limited period if conditions are met but can pursue eviction where necessary, working alongside police who have powers under legislation introduced in 2022 to act against unauthorised encampments.

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