TRAVELLERS who have moved on to the car park of a West Bridgford sports centre say they don't plan to stay long.
Five caravans have parked up by the Gresham Sports Park pitches, off Wilford Lane.
As a result, Rushcliffe Borough Council has decided to close the centre until further notice.
A spokesman said they are in contact with the police and are willing to start legal action to force their removal.
However one of the travellers yesterday told the Post they may be gone by the weekend.
He said: "We will be gone by Easter."
But the council isn't taking any chances.
The spokesman added: "Unfortunately, Rushcliffe Borough Council has taken the decision to close Gresham Sports pitches and changing pavilion temporarily due to the presence of unauthorised travellers at the site.
"Work is ongoing with the travellers supported by the police and other partners and legal proceedings will start so the facilities can be reopened as soon as possible.
"Where possible, alternative arrangements are being made for regular bookings and anyone with queries."
A touch rugby session due to take place at the venue had to be moved last night.
An e-mail sent yesterday afternoon to participants said: "Unfortunately we have just been notified by Gresham Sports Centre that their site has been taken over by travellers.
"This means that we have had to move the venue and will be running tonight's Touch session at Nottingham Trent University's astro-turf pitches."
It is not the first time travellers have moved onto the site.
In the summer of 2009, caravans and mobile homes remained on the site for a month before the authority evicted them. They left broken glass and rubbish behind.
There were also two occasions in 2003 when travellers accessed the site, near Nottingham Emmanuel School.
A 36-year-old man, who was yesterday walking his dog near the site, urged the council to move them.
"They are a nuisance," said the man, who didn't want to be named. "Last time they were here they left a right mess.
"We live in this area and like it to be kept tidy. Then they come along and make a mess. I hope they get moved if they don't leave of themselves."
Mark Jones, 38, of West Bridgford, said: "As long as they don't cause problems and keep themselves to themselves I don't mind too much.
"But I do think it's a shame they have had to close the pitches."
