A GROUP of travellers have moved onto a site in Swindon, prompting concerns from nearby residents.

The group pitched up at the Rivermead Industrial Estate on Sunday.

Six caravans were spotted parked in Rivermead Drive with their presence being reported to Swindon Council by residents shortly afterwards.

A Peatmoor resident, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed the group had created a mess on the site after setting up camp.

“There were a few caravans parked in a row, there was a disgusting mess, dogs tied up on leads and gas canisters everywhere when I walked past,” he said.

“I have emailed the council to inform them that the travellers’ site has been set up but I’ve not heard anything back as of yet.

“I fully appreciate that everyone has a right to live somewhere but my major issue is the mess that I saw.

“Hopefully the council will deal with the situation and move them on as soon as possible.

“Unfortunately, them being there creates nervousness in the community and general bad feeling.”

The council has confirmed it is aware of the travellers’ site and will be visiting the industrial estate.

The site is in the ward of Coun Jim Robbins (Lab, Mannington and Western), who said he also had made the council aware of the situation.

“I’m aware of the site and I have been in touch with the council’s travellers’ liaison officer,” he said.

“He intends to go down to the site and speak to the people to see what their intentions are and how long they plan to stay.”

A council spokesman said: “We are working with the police to move the travellers on, and we are hopeful this will happen soon. It’s not true that we haven’t acted quickly.”