Finding an unauthorised encampment on your land is a stressful experience. To find that you may also need to have it removed at your own expense via the civil courts, can add distress to an already worrying situation.
We have significant expertise in dealing with unauthorised encampments. Our dispute resolution team has been lobbying Government for a number of years to review, and change the law in this area, in order to better protect private landowners.
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What is an unauthorised encampment?
An unauthorised encampment occurs when individuals occupy land without the landowner’s permission. This can include private land, commercial premises, development sites, agricultural land and open spaces. Unauthorised encampments are often established using caravans, vehicles or temporary structures and can present a range of challenges for landowners, including disruption to operations, damage to property, health and safety concerns, and costly clean-up requirements.
An unauthorised encampment on a development site can halt construction operations, delay a programme, increase costs and, where a development is subject to time-sensitive planning conditions or funding deadlines, put a scheme at risk. Acting quickly is essential.
How can an unauthorised encampment be removed?
Whilst in some cases, civil eviction is the only remedy, in many situations, there are other options including using the police to exercise the powers they have available to them. In some circumstances, the police may be reluctant to assist and serve the relevant notice to remove the unauthorised encampment, but by carefully examining the circumstances of each encampment together with a deep understanding of the law, it is always worth working with your solicitor to help demonstrate to the police why they should exercise their powers.
Utilising this option is much more cost effective compared with the civil proceedings and it is quicker. This means less damage may occur to your land and the job of the eviction will fall to the police, which can be reassuring in a stressful situation.
If the initial response from the police is that they cannot assist, contact our team for further advice on your options to proceed before you accept the situation.
Why choose B P Collins as your unauthorised encampment solicitors?
Our specialist solicitors have significant experience advising landowners, businesses and developers on unauthorised encampments. We provide clear, pragmatic advice tailored to help you explore all available options and resolve issues affecting your property as efficiently as possible.
With over 60 years of experience, we’re consistently ranked by Chambers UK and The Legal 500 for the strength of our criminal law practice. Operating from London, Thame and Gerrards Cross, we offer tailored support across a wide range of allegations to help our clients protect their interests and achieve the best possible outcome.
Jonothan Moss and Rubin Italia have both been accredited individually by The Law Society for their expertise in Criminal Litigation. Rubin became a Higher Court Advocate in early 2007 and can practice in all criminal courts.
Contact our unauthorised encampment solicitors today
For further information or advice please contact our unauthorised encampments lawyers, who are based in London, Thame and Gerrards Cross on 01753 889995 or enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk.
