Five no-go sites for travellers

The five legal notices run from June to October 2005

A West Yorkshire council has created five no-go areas for travellers under new legislation.

Wakefield Council is using powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act to "combat the scourge of illegal encampments" it revealed on Tuesday.

The banned areas, including a cricket club and school playing fields, have been occupied by travelling communities in the past.

Police can also arrest travellers if they enter any of the five locations.

No-go areas 1. Spring Mills Playing Fields, Ossett 2. Gawthorpe Recreation Ground, Gawthorpe 3. Kettlethorpe High School Playing Fields, Kettlethorpe 4. Normanton Cricket Club, Normanton 5. Land behind Sandal Magna School, Agbrigg

Councillor Peter Looseman said: "Time after time travellers at the sites have caused major devastation and left the communities living in fear because of intimidation, harassment, public order offences and environmental crimes.

"Anyone who behaves responsibly is welcome in Wakefield, but we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour and are using the powers available to use to send this message out loud and clear."

The areas were designated following consultations between the council and police who identified the locations which had been subject to "significant and persistent invasions".

Other locations in the area are also to be looked at in the future.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: "West Yorkshire Police recognises the problems caused to local communities by the impromptu setting up of encampments of travellers.

"We will continue to work with the council and travelling community to resolve any problems which arise from such activities."