AN UNAUTHORISED traveller encampment has been issued with an order to vacate a Bournemouth town centre car park.

BCP Council said its officers are aware of the encampmant at the Pavilion Theatre site in Westover Road on Friday, July 22.

The local authority is working with Dorset Police and a site visit has been carried out.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: "We are aware of an unauthorised encampment consisting of a reported 3 living units at Pavilion Carpark on Westover road.

"Our staff have visited site to carry out the statutory welfare and educational needs assessment, along with any necessary risk assessments in order to determine the level of support to be given to the group. We are liaising with Dorset Police.

"We will be visiting, liaising with and monitoring the site going forward."

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: "Dorset Police received a report at 3pm on Friday, July 22, relating to an unauthorised encampment at the Pavilion car park in Westover Road in Bournemouth.

"Officers attended and liaised with those present at the site, as well as the local authority.

"The group was issued with a direction under section 62 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act to vacate the site.

"Officers are continuing to monitor situation to ensure the notice is complied with."