CONCERN has been voiced after travellers set up an illegal camp near business premises today.

About eight travellers’ caravans have parked outside businesses in Stephenson Street Industrial Estate.

Steve Miller said he spotted the camp when arriving at work.

He said: “I turned up this morning and saw the caravans.

“It did take me by surprise because I was expecting to go to work as normal.

“I counted a lot of caravans outside one of the businesses.”

Mr Miller said he was “angry” at the situation and called for swift action.

“They should not be allowed to just park outside these businesses,” he said.

“Some of us have been here for years and we rely on customers to come to us regularly.

“It is illegal where they have parked and they should be told that.

“They need to be moved on as quickly as possible.”

Another business owner, who did not wish to be named, said: “I just hope they will move on as quickly as possible.

“It is not fair on businesses.”

The Argus previously reported a group of travellers had parked up on the viewing point in Christchurch Road, in Newport.

It is understood the group left the spot on Monday.

Newport council said the land currently being occupied is council owned, but is subject to a long lease to Lexton Investments. 

This means responsibility for evicting the travellers falls with the leaseholder not the council.

Lexton Investments would have to contact the police or bailiffs to remove the travellers.

The company was contacted.