TRAVELLERS have once again moved on to a park-and-ride site on the outskirts of Taunton.

Buses are still currently running from the Gateway site, at Henlade, despite around a dozen caravans being in the parking areas.

It is understood the travellers arrived overnight.

Efforts are being made to remove the group, but the service remains open.

Cllr Mike Rigby, executive member for planning and transport for Somerset West and Taunton council, said: “It is obviously disappointing on the eve of the Cricket World Cup coming to Taunton that the Park and Ride has not been operational.

Somerset County Council is dealing with it. They have started the legal process and have employed specialist bailiffs.

“Last time the travellers were there Somerset County Council managed to move them on within 24 hours, we are hopeful that can happen again.

“The county council is also exploring the option of fencing off the section of the park and ride the travellers are in which would mean most of the space is still available for normal use.”

A spokesman for Somerset County Council said: “This is a developing situation and we have started the legal process to have the travellers removed.

"The site remains open with extra security and the Park & Ride service is running as normal. Further updates will be provided through the day.”

The latest incident comes after travellers moved on to the site April this year.

In April 2018, a group of travellers were on the site for a number of days, leaving damage behind which cost £7,500 to repair.