CONCERNS are growing over a new influx of travellers who have set up at Weymouth’s park and ride site for the fourth time in less than a year.

With still no new stopping sites identified in Dorset for gypsy and travellers, two groups have moved on to land at the Mount Pleasant park and ride site with more than a dozen vehicles and caravans.

It is the fourth time since September that traveller families have camped there. Some of the visitors have tidied up after themselves but a group in March left an ‘appalling mess’, according to locals.

Calls have been made to move the groups on, amid local concerns and the impression they may be giving to visitors at a gateway to the town.

Both groups have set up on land off the road surface. One group is parked next to the entrance while some more vehicles are at the far end behind Weymouth Rugby Club.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “There are not causing any problems. However, things can change on a daily basis and we are monitoring the situation.”

As landowner and operator of the park and ride as well as providers of a traveller liaison service, Dorset County Council has a dual role when dealing with visiting groups.

An officer has spoke to the groups to find out their intentions.

Borough councillor for Radipole Bill White said: “I am deeply concerned that the park and ride site is becoming a regular stopping-off point for travellers. They come in and camp anywhere they like free of charge.”

He added: “There should be official stopping-off points – without those we have a problem.”

Dorset county councillor David Mannings said: “Residents I’ve spoken too are concerned. I also don’t think it gives a good impression of Weymouth for the visitors.”

Dave Price of the Weymouth Hoteliers, Guesthouses and Leaseholders Association said: “It’s not a major concern for us but people may feel less inclined to use the park and ride while the travellers are there.”

Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Ray Banham said: “It’s not a sight you want people to see when they’re parking their cars.

“This issue must be sorted out.”

Local authorities have been consulting on proposed permanent and transit sites for gypsy and travellers.

A report was drawn up in 2012 based on responses and called for further investigation work to be done including examining new and alternative sites suggested.

Another consultation will be carried out.