Dale Farm travellers win weekend reprieve

Travellers at Dale Farm won another reprieve from bailiffs today when a High Court judge said he would consider his ruling over the weekend.

Mr Justice Edwards-Stuart said he would allow time for travellers on the illegal Essex campsite to provide evidence relating to when certain structures were built there, if it were "in the interests of justice".

The travellers will argue that certain chalets and amenity blocks are not covered by the eviction notice because they are not caravans.

Reuben Taylor, barrister for Basildon council, said the authority would not seek to dig up hard standings or paths around the plots.

Basildon seeks a complete eviction of the 51 pitches, but bailiffs waiting at the six-acre site cannot begin the process until the legal wrangle is resolved. The delay is thought to be costing £1 million a day.

The 400 travellers have been joined at the site by about 100 activists. On Monday the families secured an 11th-hour injunction delaying their departure before today's full hearing. The site's front gate, which had been cemented shut, has been opened.

Tony Ball, leader of Basildon council, said: "We believe our case is sound. "The injunction was served without notice so the council was not given the opportunity to give our side of things. If, on this technicality the judge rules against us, we will have no choice but to appeal."