IT COULD be another fortnight before a court looks into travellers at the Water Eaton Park and Ride in north Oxford, according to a local councillor.

The county council believes a group set up an ‘unauthorised encampment’ at the sight – which has been frequented by travellers numerous times – more than two weeks ago, on October 15.

A spokesman said: “Oxfordshire County Council has now completed our legal process and are awaiting a date from the County Court for a hearing to seek a possession order.”

Conservative county councillor Maurice Billington, who represents Kidlington South, added: “I know it is a problem there.

"They are a blooming nuisance."

Mr Billington continued: “I think it’ll be another week or two before they go to court. I’ll be glad when they’re gone.”

The latest stint comes after a group pitched up at the site near Oxford Parkway station in January, after some 20 caravans arrived there site in December and stayed for more than 10 days.

In October, another group pitched up at the same site, which is owned by the county council.

It was also visited in September.

And in February, a group stayed at the site for three weeks.

Travellers have set up sites in various park and rides all around Oxford, including Thornhill and Pear Tree, prompting calls for a national solution to the issue, perhaps involving giving councils more powers to remove groups.

One local, who asked to remain anonymous, added: “They have been there ages and seem to be growing in number.”