‘WE are not just “feeling” abandoned — we are being abandoned’, says an Osbourne Park resident as the unauthorised encampment at the Newton Abbot park shows no sign of leaving.

Despite being served with a notice to leave the site, more caravans have reportedly arrived at Teignbridge District Council-owned site in the last few days.

And amid anecdotal reports of intimidation, abuse and noise, as well as several allegations of criminal behaviour, including both attempted theft and break-ins, nearby resident Joshua Hibbs has hit out, saying the support, or lack thereof, from the council and police has been ‘shocking’.

Mr Hibbs said: ‘I have lived and worked in the United Kingdom for over 20 years, paid every penny of council tax, and contributed fully to this community.

‘I now find myself — like many of my neighbours and local businesses — entirely abandoned.

‘The repeated inaction and lack of support from the authorities is shocking.

‘We are not just “feeling” abandoned — we are being abandoned.

‘What are we supposed to do, and who do we turn to for protection?

‘This is no longer just about nuisance — this is about safety, accountability, and duty of care.

‘We are beyond fed up.

‘Something must be done’.

Devon & Cornwall Police say its officers have been attending regularly to engage with the group, having received reports of anti-social behaviour.

‘We are working closely with our partners in the local authority in relation to the matters reported’, a spokesperson for Devon & Cornwall Police.

Mr Hibbs’ account of the situation comes as Teignbridge District Council announced it is reviewing options to prevent future unauthorised access to its land.

The authority issued the unauthorised encampment at the Newton Abbot park with a verbal notice to leave on Wednesday, July 16.

‘We must follow a legal process that takes into account a range of factors, including tolerance, relevant case law, the Human Rights Act, and other statutory obligations’, the council said.

‘If necessary, we will take further legal action to ensure the site is vacated’, the council added.

So far this year, travellers have encamped at Osbourne Park, Bakers Park and Sandringham Park, as well as serval other sites not owned by TDC.

But the latest Osbourne Park encampment, which is the third of 2025, has prompted TDC to review its options to prevent future unauthorised access to its land.

‘This is not always straightforward’, the council said.

‘Many of our sites are used by schools, require bus access, or have layouts that make it difficult to restrict vehicle access for some while maintaining easy access for others.

‘Despite these challenges, we are actively exploring all viable options’, the council added.