Residents of West Chiltington, West Sussex, expressed shock and dismay as heavy machinery tarmacked a large field in their village over the weekend, an action they believe is intended for a new traveller site. The unauthorized construction began on Friday and persisted despite the presence of local council officials and police, who were alerted to the situation. Locals reported no planning notices had been posted prior to the work, which has raised significant concerns about the legality of the development. Horsham District Council confirmed that it issued a temporary stop notice early on Saturday, yet drone footage shows extensive tarmacking completed in the field. Reports indicate that several mobile homes are prepared to be moved onto the newly paved area. This incident is part of a troubling trend where travellers exploit bank holiday weekends to initiate unauthorized developments, as seen in other regions like Essex and Kent. The council is continuing its investigation, which could lead to further formal actions.