IT IS no surprise that residents are welcoming the new height barrier at Thornbury’s Rock Street car park.


When a group of travellers pitched up on the site over the summer, many people were affected. 


Not only were spaces taken up – which surely should be prioritised to those working, shopping or spending social time in the buzzing town – but a group of travellers were also described as intimidating to locals.


People should not feel intimidated in their own community.


Illegal encampments are just that – illegal – and it is infuriating to see people take advantage of Thornbury’s popular and busy car park while pitching up and causing a disturbance.


South Gloucestershire Council should be acknowledged for listening to residents’ and councillors’ concerns and being proactive, in the form of choosing a cost-effective prevention measure.


Of course, we cannot generalise the actions of travellers as many are civil, law-abiding and friendly to the communities they visit.


But perhaps this prevention measure was an essential addition to the centre of the town to avoid further upset.


The car park is an important feature which enables hundreds of people each day to enjoy what Thornbury has to offer – a thriving high street with an array of independent shops with surrounding schools, businesses, outdoor spaces and much more.