LORDS Meadow Leisure Centre in Crediton is looking at ways to improve its security following several incidents with Travellers in recent months.  

Groups took up residence in its car park in April for several days, forcing the centre to close and leaving behind refuse, food, faeces, fuel cans and more. 

Then, when travellers returned twice in July, the centre decided to shut immediately for staff welfare and to prevent any further damage. 

“Following the recent encampments of Travellers at our leisure sites, we are looking at a number of security options to prevent any future, unauthorised use,” said a spokesperson for Lords Meadow Leisure Centre, which is owned by Mid Devon District Council.  

“We are talking with neighbouring authorities and other leisure operators to understand what measures they have successfully implemented, to see what would work best at our own sites. 

“We... are taking this seriously and exploring all options, so we can offer the quality, uninterrupted service our customers deserve and expect.”