Cornwall Council has been called on to take action on an “illegal” camp where people have been seen urinating and defecating.

A concerned Truro resident contacted the council after seeing the camp at Newham in the city.

The resident said that people had pitched tents on council-owned land and claimed that by not taking action the council was encouraging more to camp without permission.

He wrote: “I would like to bring your attention to an “illegal” campsite that has pitched their tents on council owned property between Tesco and Skinner’s Brewery.

“I have personally seen the occupiers urinating against the wall and defecating in the bushes. I find this behaviour disgusting and lack of action by the council is only going to encourage more people to camp illegally.

“They have open fires and piles of timber for burning. There is rubbish strewn around the area. The bushes and shrubs are being damaged.”

He claimed that the campers had put up signs offering to repair bicycles.

He added: “He has recently put up a sign saying second hand caravan wanted so he clearly thinks the lack of enforcement action by the council is permission to stay permanently.”

In closing his letter he asked the council to provide comments on the campsite and to tell him what action they would take.

Cornwall councillor and Mayor of Truro Bert Biscoe was also sent the letter and said that the resident’s concerns were “shared by many”.

He said that he had shared the letter with Cornwall Council’s housing department and community safety officer who would liaise with other agencies including the police.

In a statement Cornwall Council did not address the specific concerns about Newham but said that it would help homeless people.

It said: “We acted quickly to put in place accommodation for rough sleepers as soon as the government’s lockdown measures were announced. We have arrangements in place so that people do not have to sleep rough including accommodation in hotels and holiday parks. We’re continuing to monitor the situation with more accommodation options being put in place.

“We understand that in some instances people may not accept the offer that is made or that accommodation arrangement may break down for them. In those cases, we will continue to offer Outreach support and actively encourage people to accept any offers that are made.

“Anyone who is homeless or threatened with homelessness, should contact Cornwall Housing Limited on 0300 1234 161 and ask for the Prevention and Engagement team. You can also find useful information and advice on their website at www.cornwallhousing.org.uk.

“If you are concerned about someone who is sleeping rough, you should report this through Streetlink by visiting www.streetlink.org.uk or by phoning them on 0300 500 0914. Streetlink will then inform our Outreach Team who can make contact with the person and offer them help and support to find accommodation.”