New Forest District Council investigating complaints of large number of animals kept in mobile home at a caravan park near Ringwood

Complaints about a mobile home park resident allegedly keeping a large number of animals are being investigated.

Rat, fly and maggot infestations have been reported by neighbours at a park near Ringwood, as a result of pets including dogs and guinea pigs at the property.

Representatives have taken their concerns to Ringwood Town Council, as well as to site owner New Forest District Council.

Five residents attended a recent full town council meeting, which heard the issue was affecting their health and wellbeing.

A summary of concerns was circulated, and a letter from another resident who was unable to attend the meeting was read out.

The summary told how residents found living at the park stressful since the issue arose in spring 2023, with reports of bad smells, and infestations of rats, bluebottles and maggots.

Cllr John Haywood, in his capacity as a district councillor, had met with NFDC officers and been informed investigations were ongoing. However, the authority had said further evidence was required.

The officers were expected to be invited to an on-site meeting with residents that Cllr Haywood was arranging.

January’s full council meeting had heard the matter was getting worse rather than improving after being referred to NFDC.

Asked by residents for support, members at that time expressed sympathy but pointed out the town council has no powers or duties to deal with the matter.

Cllr Michael Thierry had proposed that the four district councillors present at that meeting collectively seek an interview with NFDC’s chief executive to discuss the matter.

An NFDC spokesperson told the A&T: “We can confirm we have received complaints regarding animals on the site and we are working with residents and local councillors to resolve any outstanding issues.”

Deputy town clerk Jo Hurd told the A&T she understood the issue is mainly related to a number of dogs, but also guinea pigs, kept at the property.