Travellers have been given the go ahead to stay at Irvine’s beach park due to the Covid-19 crisis.
A small number of caravans have been spotted at the car park near the seafront site off Marine Drive.
The beach car park is not normally an authorised site for gypsy travellers. In the past North Ayrshire Council has asked groups staying overnight to move on.
But that has now changed since local government organisation COSLA advised against eviction if possible.
A North Ayrshire Council spokesman said: “Our Gypsy/Traveller coordinator is in regular contact with the families. In line with the guidelines set out by the Scottish Government and COSLA during the Covid-19 pandemic, we are not planning any action to remove the families at present.
“It was agreed that Gypsy/Travellers living at the roadside should be supported during this period and that access to basic sanitation and services – toilets, water, bins and wash facilities should be arranged.
“We are continuing to liaise with the families and will monitor the situation.”
Travellers are at greater risk during the pandemic for a number of reasons including overcrowding in trailers and difficulties in keeping up with public health announcements.
They also have higher levels of underlying health conditions, which increases the risk of serious illness.
COSLA warned local authorities should only consider eviction or dispersal of a camp where the site is unsuitable for health or safety reasons.
Irvine East SNP councillor Marie Burns said: “Gypsy Travellers are struggling through this pandemic like the rest of us. I support the Scottish Government guidelines and the actions the council is taking.”
Neighbouring South Ayrshire Council recently confirmed a Notice to Quit was served for travellers who camped at the Citadel leisure centre in Ayr.
