A group of travellers in Kew Green were immediately threatened with eviction after they arrived to a green space in the suburb yesterday (May 27).

Richmond Council said the "unauthorised" group arrived on Thursday evening and were greeted soon after by officers, the Police and Park Guard.

The Council said the group of around 12 caravans were “not willing to leave or co-operate with a welfare assessment”.

Therefore, the Council will now commence the legal process to obtain and enforce a Possession Order.

Due to a High Court order earlier this month that delayed the process, the eviction is expected to take a number of days.

Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, said:

“A small group of travellers has arrived in Kew. This morning, Council officers will commence the legal action required to expedite their departure. Due to a recent court ruling, this process will not be as fast as residents would like and I know that they will be concerned, but we have to work within the law.

“As soon as the travellers leave, we will inspect the area and ensure that any damage is repaired, and waste removed. Our Park Guard officers, along with the Police, will be monitoring the site closely until the group depart.”