Unauthorised Traveller Caravans in England Jump 73% to 4,950 as Pitch Shortages Deepen
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 15
Unauthorised Traveller Caravans in England Jump 73% to 4,950 as Pitch Shortages Deepen
2 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 15
Summary
4,950 unauthorised Gypsy and traveller caravans were counted in England in January, up 73% from 2,860 in January 2020, while summer counts rose 44% between 2019 and 2025.
28,659 traveller caravans were recorded overall in July 2025—up 21% from 2019—but campaigners and planners say approved pitches have not kept pace, pushing some families to develop land first and seek retrospective permission later.
Basildon, Essex, has become a flashpoint: unauthorised caravans there rose 164% between July 2019 and July 2025, and a long-running Wickford site still exceeds permitted numbers despite enforcement notices and a passed compliance deadline.
Basildon officials are weighing a court injunction, while ministers say unauthorised developments are unacceptable but also insist councils must provide enough safe, suitable sites as national planning rules are reviewed.