FIFE COUNCIL have moved on travellers who had parked up in Culross last week. 

Shirley-Anne Sommerville, MSP for Dunfermline, was contacted by several worried constituents who were concerned about the safety of local residents and the welfare of animals, after a six-vehicle traveller site popped up in the east car park on March 10. 

Travellers have parked up in Culross in the past leaving mess behind them. 

Ms Somerville contacted the Press to say: “I have been contacted by several concerned constituents about the presence of a traveller campsite, consisting of six vehicles, at the East carpark in Culross village.

“I understand from my constituents that Fife Council and the police have been contacted about this matter but no assurances have been given to local residents at this time.

“I have now written separately to Fife Council and to police, asking for an update on the situation, what the legalities are surrounding the traveller site, and how local residents’ concerns will be addressed.”

Police Scotland confirmed that there had been no issues with people at the site. 

Fife Council was able to take legal action three days after the travellers arrived and an order of removal was served. 

A Fife Council spokesperson said: “A visit to the camp was made on 13th March and legal action was initiated as the travellers refused to move on. Fife Council was in the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday (March 13) and enforcement action was taken on Tuesday as we are obliged to provide the travellers with 48 hours’ notice. 

“The council will arrange for any clear-up of items left behind.”

The council is required to take separate legal action to evict travellers on each occasion and advocates for the council in Edinburgh can get the case to the High Court quickly, often within 24 hours.

It is costly for the council to do this but it is believed to be the most effective action available.

After the events at the car park, Fife Council say they are now considering the installation of an overhead barrier but this would also exclude coaches and other high-sided vehicles which could be to the detriment of the town in terms of tourist activity.