At least eight caravans and associated vehicles moved onto Wrythe Green in Carshalton on the evening of Tuesday (July 1).
Removal could take up to two weeks, according to Sutton Council, leaving locals frustrated that their local green is effectively out of use for the public.
Residents told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that since the group arrived on Tuesday, there have been disturbances from loud music and barking dogs.
Jeff, a resident of Carlton Towers facing the green, told the LDRS of his frustration. He said: “They played music until 10pm, and they were still here the next morning.”
He added: “Residents are pretty upset because this is the first time this has happened in years.
“The last time this happened was in 2018, and that was on Denmark Road.”
Jeff claimed a dog was barking from midnight until 5am. Children’s toys, rubbish, and household waste are now scattered across the green.
“The grassland belongs to the council, so in the end, any rubbish clearance will have to be paid for by the council,” Jeff said.
Jeff is also concerned that propane gas canisters used to power the caravans have been seen left out in direct sunlight, raising fears about a fire risk in the warm weather.
Police reportedly visited the green on the evening of July 1 to speak with the group.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service understands that Sutton Council has asked the police to send officers to the area at different points in the day to provide reassurance.
Although local councillor Colin Stears confirmed that the removal process has started, residents are concerned about the timeline. The council has admitted that this process could take up to two weeks, although the caravans could move before then.
Reaction online has been mixed, particularly on Facebook, where some users argue the families are doing no harm and should be left alone.
Others have voiced frustration that the removal and clean-up are taking too long and worry that the final bill will fall to the council and, by extension, local taxpayers.
In an official statement, a council spokesperson said: “We understand the concern and frustration that illegally camped groups can have on our residents, and we always make full use of our powers to remove them.
“We are working to ensure the camper vans on Wrythe Green in Carshalton are moved on as quickly as possible while meeting our safeguarding, welfare and legal obligations. If anyone has concerns for their welfare or safety, they should always contact the police.”
