Travellers set up camp in Roundhay Park

The group are believed to have arrived yesterday evening.

Leeds to introduce 28-day amnesty period for illegally camped travellersAs the land is owned by Leeds City Council, overnight camping within the park boundary is classed as an illegal activity.

A council spokesman said:

"We are aware of this illegal travellers’ encampment, and are taking the required steps to seek potential removal as soon as possible."

No 'secret list' of proposed 28-day traveller sitesLast summer, the council introduced a 28-day 'amnesty' period after a spate of illegal encampments in areas including Alwoodley Green, Holbeck Moor, Meanwood and Armley.

The scheme proposed creating nine temporary caravan sites on a 'rolling' basis on vacant pockets of land awaiting redevelopment. Families would be allowed to stay on the site for 28 days without being evicted, and would have to sign a 'good behaviour' contract with the council. Skips and toilets would be provided for a maximum of nine caravans.

The idea was to reduce the costs associated with enforcement action and clean-ups.