PILES of rubbish were left dumped on a plot of land after a traveller encampment set up on the site.

Travellers pitched-up on land near the Halstead Cricket Club and the Willow Park developmen, after arriving during a match.

The group reportedly entered the site when the match was in process at about 4.30pm on Saturday and were seen leaving the following Wednesday afternoon.

Braintree Council said it was made aware of the encampment but could not take action as it did not own the land.

A spokesman said: “We were aware of the encampment in Halstead on private land between Halstead Cricket Club and the development site off Sudbury Road (near Star Stile).

“Where the land involved is private land or outside the scope of the Essex County Traveller Unit agreement, then the landowner is responsible for making arrangements to remove the encampment from their land. 

“In this instance, we were made aware of the encampment and that the owner of the land had notified the police.

“The clearance of any rubbish left will be the responsibility of the landowner.”

The travellers pitching up on the site, owned by Bellway, frustrated many residents, with town mayor Jackie Pell left with similar feelings.

She said: “I was dealing with them all week.

"Everyone is entitled to their opinions and some enjoyed talking to them but the mess left is very frustrating.

“The majority of people were unhappy with the situation, there were dogs making noise, and some couldn’t go for walks in the area.

“Litter was also left behind for others to clear up.

“I know Bellway worked to clear it up, and when the travellers were on the site they sent a letter out making people aware of the steps they were taking.

“I also understand they will be taking precautions going forwards and reintroducing a concrete barrier on the site.”