Newly refurbished Chiseldon Firs offers Travellers improved facilities
Swindon council hopes to reduce illegal encampments with updated site
The refurbishment of Chiseldon Firs, a site designed to support the Travelling community, has been completed outside Chiseldon, Swindon. Operated by Swindon Borough Council, the updated facility offers pitches, toilets, cleaning facilities, and a play area, aiming to encourage Travellers to utilize it instead of setting up camps on open green spaces within the Borough.
With the completion of the £500,000 refurbishment funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Chiseldon Firs now features improved water systems, enhanced individual cubicle facilities in the toilet and shower block, a new play area, washing-up amenities, a bin store, and space for animals.
The Council intends to offer Chiseldon Firs to any groups entering the Borough, providing a safe venue for short stays that deter illegal encampments, which can potentially damage the local environment. In cases where the offer is declined, Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Police can act swiftly to address unauthorized settlements.
Councillor Janine Howarth, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, commented on the improvements:
“Chiseldon Firs had been neglected for so long...Now there’s a dedicated location where these groups can go and make full use of the facilities.”
Chiseldon Firs is available for advance bookings, enabling groups passing through Swindon to plan their stay accordingly. While some groups may still opt for alternate sites, the availability of Chiseldon Firs facilitates quicker actions to manage disruptive settlements.
The updated facilities reinforce Swindon Borough Council's commitment to supporting the Traveller community through sustainable and convenient solutions, enhancing both the site's usability and environmental protection across the Borough.