00:00Residents in Irby say tensions have risen after a large static caravan was moved on to protected Greenbelt land.
00:08The caravan was taken onto the plot in a police-escorted vehicle,
00:12prompting criticism from local homeowners in the area surrounding the site.
00:17Police say officers are duty-bound to escort large vehicles that could pose a safety risk because of their size
00:24or weight.
00:25Residents have criticised the escort, with one saying officers appeared more concerned with the traveller's welfare than other residents living
00:34nearby.
00:34The site was bought by three traveller families in August.
00:38They moved onto the land and carried out works, including a fence and hard standing.
00:43Rural Council have placed a stop notice on engineering works, but it does not apply to caravans.
00:49Local campaigners say they are distressed and want stronger action.
00:54Councillor Mark Skillicorn says he is pushing for the council's enforcement options to be escalated as a matter of urgency.
01:03He says residents want swift action over the site and better communication.
01:09Rural Councils say the notice is intended to protect the environment and assess the development's impact.
01:15It expires on the 22nd of October.
01:19Merzyside Police say its neighbourhood team continues to provide support and reassurance to the community.
01:26The council is said to be monitoring the issue.
