TRAVELLERS have again descended on the car park of the historic Raven Inn at Glazebury, Warrington, to the anger of local campaigners attempting to save the building as a community facility.
Four caravans and associated vehicles have parked up on the Raven car park, earlier today, Thursday – despite concrete blocks being placed across the driveway.
On this occasion, entry was gained by driving vehicles on the grass verge and around the blocks.
Speaking on behalf of the Help Save the Raven group, Peter Sturman said: “We have an excellent network of local residents and supporters, who keep an eye on the Raven.
“We were alerted, this morning, that some travellers had entered the car park. I and another group member checked it out.
“The travellers have driven round the concrete blocks and churned up the grass verge in so doing.”
Parish councillor Janet Sneddon was also in attendance and reported it to Warrington Borough Council, as it is their land which is being used to gain access.
Borough councillor Carol Benson has also reported it to the council and alerted their highways department.
Mr Sturman added: “In the time I was there about four vehicles came and went. Each departing vehicle is spreading mud, from the verge, onto the road. This has to be a cause for some concern.
“The caravans were hauled on to the car park when the ground was hard and frosty, this morning. As it thaws the mud will become much worse.”
The owners of the Raven Inn and the police have also been alerted.
The pub is currently closed closed and earmarked for a housing development, despite the ongoing campaign to save the historic building as a community facility.
Mr Sturman added: “We continue to urge the owners to engage with us. The Raven must be protected and brought into community ownership.The Raven can, once again, become a vibrant part of our local community.”
Borough Cllr Wendy Maisey added: “This again reinforces the urgency for Warrington Borough Council to name and progress the permanent travellers site that is so desperately required. The villages in my ward seem to be affected by temporary encampments more so than many other wards in Warrington. I want to see big steps made in the right direction by WBC before we get into the summer months.”
