The long-abandoned Wroughton Park and Ride site on Pipers Way has been seized by a group of travellers, raising mixed reactions from local residents.

The site, which last saw bus activity in 2007, has been inaccessible to vehicles due to gated entries.

However, recent sightings by passersby reveal that the group of travellers is using a key to unlock a padlock and enter the premises.

Swindon Borough Council confirmed on Wednesday that the travellers do not have permission to occupy the site.

Resident Grahame Rogers commented: “Funny thing is they have been there weeks if not months.”

Opinions on the travellers’ presence are divided.

Some residents, like Kirsten Littlechild, advocate for a laissez-faire approach: “They’ve been in there ages, Just leave them be out the way and not hurting anyone.”

This view is shared by Robert Norfolk, who noted: “They have been in there for around 4 weeks, no one has had any problems with them, so I say leave them!!”

Conversely, others are concerned about potential nuisances.

Mark Holton mentioned visible garbage accumulation and questioned the council’s inaction: “You can see the rubbish they throw out building up already. I’m staggered the council haven’t moved them on yet! They must know they’re in the place and got in illegally.”

Gary Blackford’s sarcastic comment, “Lock up ya bikes. And daughters,” and Karen Symmonds’ claim, “They need to be moved. They are a problem looking around people gardens at night,” reflect the apprehensions of those worried about safety and property.

The debate extends to social media, where users propose various solutions. Nigel Chalk suggested a financial approach: “Just charge them rent, might as well get some money from somewhere.”

Meanwhile, Martin Pearce urged collaboration between the council and travellers: “As it isn’t being used does it matter? Come on Swindon council why not work with them?”

The site’s long period of disuse raises questions about its potential.

Alison Hill criticized the lack of utilization: “If it’s not been used since 2007 why has it not been used instead of building on green belt.”

Similarly, Mia Wheeler offered a practical idea: “The council should have turned the park and ride into a campervan site and charge like the French do. Or turn it into a container village.”

While some see the travellers’ presence as beneficial, like Chris Smith who said, “I think it’s perfect place for them... let them have it.

“It’s better than having this than in the greens of Tadpole or in the industrial estates.”

Others, like Victoria Brewster, foresee problems: “People saying leave them be, obviously don’t live near them. They’ll pinch anything that isn’t nailed down, the place will be riddled in rubbish before long too.”

The council has yet to announce a definitive plan for resolving the situation.

In the meantime, the community remains divided, with many advocating for tolerance and practical solutions while others call for immediate action to reclaim the site.

In a town where opinions are as varied as the circumstances, the future of the Wroughton Park and Ride site remains uncertain.

Whether the council will heed calls for cooperation or enforcement, the travellers’ occupation has undoubtedly sparked a broader conversation about land use and community integration in Swindon.

It is not yet known when the council will look to evict the trespassers.