WORK to install security measures to prevent travellers from setting up on public land in Southcote is underway.

The site on Granville Road has seen 11 different offences since Christmas and Reading Borough Council (RBC) is finally working to secure the land off Circuit Lane following a public outcry.

Knee-high metal rail barriers and natural mounds of dirt will be installed along the perimeter.

RBC started work on the area on Monday (August 7) and a new group of travellers moved onto the site before the council's team had completed the project.

However, a council spokesman confirmed police used their powers to successfully remove them.

Reading Chronicle:

Councillor Liz Terry, lead member for Neighbourhoods, said: “The security measures being installed in Granville Road have been designed to prevent further incursions while at the same time being complementary to the surroundings.

“We have listened to residents’ concerns and this year put in place a budget of £100,000, of which we have so far committed £52,000, to prevent further incursions and protect Reading’s parks and public land.”

Measures are being considered to ensure the land is secured without ruining the natural landscape.

Fencing is also due to be installed on a smaller piece of public land in Dwyer Road, which has been subject to a number of incursions in recent months.

Wooden posts, rail fencing and earth mound defences were installed in Prospect Park late last year.

More recently, work was also carried out to protect Coley Recreation Ground and Courage Park.