A GROUP of travellers have returned to the city for the first time this year and set up another illegal encampment.

About eight caravans were parked up in a car park in Pillgwenlly sometime over the weekend.

And residents have now voiced their concern about the encampment.

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A Pill resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “Within a couple of days, they were starting to make a mess. There are car wheels and bags of refuse everywhere.

“Looking at how they have treated the car park, it is a concern.

“The car park is used by visitors to the Transporter Bridge.

“Being on the main road – it’s an eyesore."

Another resident, who also wanted to remain anonymous, added: “This is the first time I have seen them here.

“They have been all over the place. I think there needs to be a site for them to go to, rather than just turn up anywhere in Newport.”

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A spokeswoman from Newport City Council said: "Officers from Newport City Council are working alongside Gwent Police to tackle the illegal traveller encampment on a car park in Pill.

"The council has to follow procedures and guidelines laid down by Welsh Government in working towards a solution."

Last year, a group of travellers also set up illegal encampments in Black Ash Park and Coronation Park in recent months.

The group was later evicted from Black Ask Park after Newport City Council obtained a writ from the High Court.