Unauthorised sites are growing but travellers say they are forced to break the law
The number of unauthorized Gypsy and traveller sites in England has risen significantly, leading to increased legal and social friction. While local authorities cite planning control issues, travellers argue that the system is biased against them, forcing them to build without permission.
Why it matters
It highlights a complex social and political issue involving housing rights, planning legislation, and the marginalization of minority communities.
Image source, John Fairhall/BBC Image caption, This site in Wickford, Essex, only has permission for seven mobile homes
BBC East political correspondent Published 16 August 2026, 00:46 BST The number of unauthorised Gypsy and traveller sites is on the rise, with developments often carried out over Bank Holiday weekends.
Since April, sites in Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and elsewhere have been transformed, prompting legal battles and local dismay.
In January, the number of unauthorised traveller caravans – those without planning permission – across England stood at 4,950, a 73% increase on January 2020's figure of 2,860.
The summer count also shows a rise, of 44% between July 2019 and July 2025, from 3,113 to 4,471.
A senior councillor in one affected area warns there has been a "loss of control" of the planning system, while villagers living near one site likened its rapid construction to a "military operation" .
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in