Ben Schofield

Unauthorised Gypsy and traveller caravans in England have risen sharply, increasing 73% from January 2020 to January 2026 and 44% between the July 2019 and July 2025 counts. Basildon in Essex has seen one of the largest increases, prompting residents and councillors to demand stronger enforcement against developments at Newlands Road and elsewhere. Traveller advocate Clifford Codona says inadequate authorised sites, discrimination and repeated evictions push some families into unlawful development, while council representatives argue that planning rules are being ignored and enforcement is too weak. Planning experts and government officials acknowledge that councils must provide enough suitable authorised pitches, but the government also says unauthorised development is unacceptable and is considering tougher rules for retrospective applications.

Nigel Farage’s decision to resign as MP for Clacton and trigger a by-election prompted mixed reactions from political parties and local voters. Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats declined to field candidates, while allies and critics debated whether the move was principled or tactical. The resignation follows scrutiny over undeclared financial support, with investigations potentially resuming if Farage is re-elected. Constituents expressed both admiration and scepticism, and the outcome may lead to a future recall process depending on the findings of the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner.

Regional leaders and organisations assess how incoming prime minister Andy Burnham might influence major infrastructure and development projects across the East of England. While existing commitments such as East West Rail, new towns, and investment in the Oxford–Cambridge corridor appear secure, uncertainty remains over future funding priorities as Burnham may shift focus toward northern transport schemes. Local MPs and councils stress the need for unified lobbying to secure continued investment, while debates continue over devolution plans, new mayoralties, and contentious projects such as new pylons, reservoirs and housing developments. Many decisions await Burnham’s cabinet appointments and early policy choices, leaving much still unresolved.