Travellers stranded in Colney Heath (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Travellers stranded in Colney Heath

12:22pm Tuesday 12th May 2009 in News By Alexandra Barham

TRAVELLERS were left stranded in Colney Heath after the drivers of their vehicles were arrested by police.

A fleet of gipsy caravans moved on to Roehyde Farm near the village on Wednesday evening, shortly after they had been escorted off Colney Heath Common by police.

After being served a notice to leave by the land owner, the convoy then moved onto Roestock Lane, where they were forced to remain until Saturday evening following the arrest of two of the drivers.

Councillor Chris Brazier criticised the police over the handling of the situation.

He said: "I find it incredible that the police have allowed them to park up on the public highway without moving them onto a gipsy site. They left residents with these travellers living outside.

"I was extremely concerned and constantly on the phone to the police to get this resolved. The police didn't consult any residents before deciding to leave them in Roestock Lane."

Police have confirmed that two men were arrested following an incident in Roestock Lane on Friday, May 8.

The Review has contacted Hertfordshire Constabulary and is currently waiting for a comment.