Gladstone Park travellers who set up camp in the park have been ordered to leave by 10am tomorrow morning.
The group was spotted at around 1pm today (October 14), with “several” caravans reportedly being driven erratically through the park.
Council issues deadline
Brent Council officers visited the site and told those occupying it they do not have permission to remain on council-owned land.
A Brent Council spokesperson said: “As soon as we were alerted, council officers visited the site and advised those occupying it that they do not have permission to remain on council-owned land and must vacate the site by 10am tomorrow.”
“We are not aware of any arrests in connection with this matter at this time.”
“The council will continue to monitor the situation and take robust action.”
Reports of erratic driving
Councillor Tariq Dar MBE, of the Cricklewood & Mapesbury ward, said the caravans had been “driving erratically” in the area.
A dog walker reported “several” vehicles “driving very fast and without care” along the footpaths and in the park.
The dog walker said: “This is very dangerous and police should be sent out.”
Police involvement
The Metropolitan Police has been approached for more information. At the time of writing, the council said it was not aware of any arrests.
What happens if they don’t leave
If the group does not vacate by the 10am deadline, the council has options. These typically include applying to the courts for a possession order, or — in cases involving anti-social behaviour — seeking police powers to direct trespassers to leave.
The council’s statement that it will “take robust action” suggests it is prepared to escalate if the deadline is not met.
Context
This is not the first time Gladstone Park has seen an unauthorised encampment. The park, in Dollis Hill, is one of Brent’s largest green spaces and has been the site of similar incidents in the past.
Unauthorised encampments on council land are a recurring issue across London. Councils must balance the rights of travellers with their duty to protect public spaces and respond to residents’ concerns.
The law requires councils to consider the welfare of those on unauthorised sites — including children and vulnerable people — before taking enforcement action. But councils also have a responsibility to act when behaviour poses a risk to public safety.
In this case, the reports of vehicles being driven at speed along footpaths — where families walk dogs and children play — are likely to have accelerated the council’s response.
It’s worth noting the speed of the council’s action here. The group was spotted at 1pm; by the evening, officers had visited and issued a deadline for 10am the next morning. That is a rapid turnaround, suggesting the reports of dangerous driving were taken seriously.
For the travellers, the overnight deadline gives them limited time to make alternative arrangements. For residents, it offers reassurance that the situation is being handled.
What happens next
The 10am deadline tomorrow (October 15) is the key moment. If the group leaves voluntarily, the matter ends there. If not, the council will need to decide on its next steps.
Residents with concerns are advised to contact Brent Council or the police. Anyone who witnessed dangerous driving should report it, as this could support any further action.
The Met Police has been approached for comment. If officers do become involved, they have powers under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act to direct trespassers to leave land in certain circumstances — particularly where there is anti-social behaviour or damage.
For now, the park remains open. But residents using Gladstone Park this evening and tomorrow morning should be aware of the situation and report any concerns to the council or police.
London Streets has been covering the initial reports of caravans in Gladstone Park and the Camden schools consultation.
