On May 2, heavy machinery was moved on to a site near Lurgashall, in the South Downs National Park, where a large area of grass was removed and caravans pitched up on the land.
Chichester District Council served the group an injunction notice, which ordered a stop to all new engineering operations and more caravans or vehicles entering the site. They also issued an enforcement notice.
At a hearing on Tuesday (September 9), the high court granted the council a permanent injunction. The judge also awarded costs of £53,000 to Chichester District Council.
The injunction means that if the defendants breach the terms of the permanent injunction, they may be found to be in contempt of court. Doing so could lead to a fine, seizure of assets, and/or a term of imprisonment.
The hearing had been set on the 14 July 2025, but the judge granted an adjournment until 9 September to allow the defendants to provide further written evidence regarding their personal circumstances. During this time an interim injunction was in place.
In line with an enforcement notice issued by the council, the relevant parties are required to return the land to agricultural use, remove any unauthorised structures, items, vehicles and caravans, and cease the unauthorised use of the land.
Councillor Bill Brisbane, Cabinet Member for Planning at Chichester District Council said: “We are very pleased that the High Court has granted a full injunction in this case. This is a significant step in protecting our countryside and ensuring that planning regulations are upheld.
“The injunction sends a clear message that unauthorised development will not be tolerated, and we will continue to take robust action to safeguard our local environment and communities. “We will now focus on taking the next steps to ensure that the site is cleared and returned to its original condition.”
Chichester District Council has said that it will continue to engage with residents, parish councils, and those currently on the site.
It is also working closely with the South Downs National Park Authority to ensure the matter is resolved appropriately and in line with planning regulations.
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