PERSISTENT invasion of Oxford’s park and ride sites by travellers has partly been blamed on a lack of power to force them to leave.

Oxfordshire County Council has been accused of being ‘spineless’ after caravans returned to Water Eaton Park and Ride near Oxford Parkway, having already been moved on from the site in December, as well as from Thornhill Park and Ride and Pear Tree Park and Ride in the same month.

On Thursday – almost two weeks after the travellers set up camp – the council issued the group a court summons, ordering them to appear in front of magistrates if they had not left by Tuesday.

Oxford Mail commenters online branded the council’s efforts ‘spineless’ and ‘making a mockery’ of the system.

One said the group were ‘running rings’ round the council, adding: “It’s about time someone accepted responsibility for this ongoing fiasco.”

The council has defended itself, calling for the Government to amend the law so it can move travellers quickly.

Council spokesman, Paul Smith, said: “All councils are constrained by the law as regards how quick it is to move travellers on.

“We would certainly like more powers and, along with councils across the country, await the conclusions of the Government review with great interest.”

In October, the Government pledged to review the way in which existing powers are enforced to tackle illegal encampments, and understand what more can be done to tackle them.

The council currently follows a lengthy eviction procedure, and must attend court if it is to gain an official eviction order.

Mr Smith said when the council is granted a possession order it remains valid for three months, meaning if the same travellers return, they can be moved quickly.

But he noted this particular group moved of their ‘own volition’ last time.

He added: “Park and rides may be attractive [to travellers] since they offer a large open space, normally with a good surface.

“This, coupled with the fact that we need to ensure these spaces are accessible to the public, means they may be more vulnerable to unlawful occupation.”

Travellers are able to camp lawfully on six different sites operated by the council across the county, as well as 21 privately-owned sites.

There are proposals to introduce more plots for travellers. The council did not state if the travellers remained at Water Eaton yesterday.