Ripon Park in Borehamwood is now fully protected by posts and bollards

Dozens of small posts have been fitted around Ripon Park at a cost of £40,000, in response to a series of traveller incursions on the land in 2018.

Several parks were camped upon in Hertsmere, particularly over the summer, but no more than Ripon Park.

People living in Borehamwood called for greater protection of the site and the council listened.

Labour councillor Richard Butler did raise concerns at the most recent full council meeting in January about the distance between the posts but this has been checked and the gap is 1.2 metres apart.

Cllr Butler also pointed out a footpath near the junction of Manor Way and Arundel Drive remained unprotected and could be a possible route into the park for caravans.

Vehicles in Ripon Park in 2018

Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council Morris Bright says the installation of the wooden bollards by the footpath would have been “too low” for pedestrians creating a trip hazard. It has been agreed with the parks team at the council that two taller concrete bollards will be installed on the footpath at each end.

They are due for installation imminently.

Last month, the council was granted an extension to its injunction on travellers in the borough. It means the council can take immediate action on encampment for the next three years without having to go through the courts.