Travellers move onto playing fields on Bradford- Leeds border

Residents and a local councillor spoke of their frustration after 15 to 20 caravans moved onto playing fields off the A647 Leeds Road and adjacent to Sunnybank Avenue in Thornbury.

Caravans gained access to the playing fields through a gate off Leeds Road (Image: UGC)

One person who contacted the T&A said: "As a local resident, I am shocked that travellers have descended on these sports fields yet again.

"I feel let down by local councillors who have had their fair share of photos taken pointing at travellers in the sports fields over the years.

"Still, they get into those fields, time and time again.

Caravans on the playing fields off Leeds Road in Thornbury (Image: Newsquest)

"There is just too much woolly thinking and woolly ideas that just do not work.

"It's 2023 and no one can find a way to stop travellers from getting into these fields and taking them over."

Cllr Amanda Carter (Calverley and Farsley) said: "It's happened before on these playing fields."

Cllr Carter said she had reported the situation to Pudsey Neighbourhood Policing Team, while another local resident had reported it to police.

She said: "It's Bradford Council-owned land, but it falls within Leeds City Council and it's in my ward.

"These are playing fields used by children in the community.

"The last time there was rubbish and excrement left behind and Bradford Council had to clean it up.

"Access last time was also made through these gates and it ought to have been made safe.

"It's now time we look at making these playing fields into a village green.

"It's the only green space between here Leeds and Bradford and there is a shortage of playing fields.

"It's under Bradford Council but locals are worried that they are going to be built on.

"If it becomes a village green it would be looked after by local residents."

Another local resident has contacted the T&A about the travellers.

"This is an area where kids usually play football and cricket, it's used by dog walkers, runners and bikers, so it's causing a problem.

"It's happened before. Last time, there were about 14 caravans in total. This time, I've counted seven or eight, but I'd expect more to arrive. It's on the border between Bradford and Leeds."

A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said: “The council is aware of this encampment and the land occupied is in ownership of Bradford Council who have been made aware. In terms of eviction, this falls to the landowners to take further steps.”

“We will continue to monitor the situation and liaise with Bradford Council, local ward members, police, and the local community.”

A Bradford Council spokesperson added: “We were informed this morning of the encampment which arrived at 4.30pm yesterday. We have begun the legal process to arrange to gain vacant possession of the site.”

The T&A has also contacted West Yorkshire Police for comment.