Hadleigh trenches and embankments dug in Scrub Lane field

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Deep trenches and embankments are being dug at a field in south Essex to prevent illegal occupation after people had been looking at the site "under suspicious circumstances".

Work is being carried out at Scrub Lane in Hadleigh today after information from Essex Police led Essex Council to take action.

According to Councillor Allan Edwards, Essex councillor for Hadleigh, the police said people were observing the field suspiciously.

"I have been pushing for action to ensure that it could not easily be accessed," Mr Edwards said in a post on social media. "I am pleased to see that work is being completed today, ahead of the bank holiday, when land is at higher risk of occupation."

Embankments and "deep trenches" are being installed by the council.

Workers were spotted earlier on today with diggers, shifting soil into huge mounds.

Travellers previously occupied a car park and a field on nearby Canvey, driving motor homes onto the land and reportedly breaking a height restriction barrier.

Castle Point Council quickly condemned their action and authorised their removal with the threat of legal action.

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