A controversial gypsy and travellers' caravan site that was closed after trouble flared between feuding families will not re-open, it has been announced.

The Peak Copse site in Kempshott Park, Basingstoke, had to be closed in October 1996 after a number of disturbances between rival residents.

The decision to keep it closed comes despite concerns that more and more travellers are camping without permission across the South.

Council bosses, who say there is simply not the demand for a permanent site, have vowed the closure will not cause more problems with unauthorised camping.

New sites needed

They say they will be looking to set up more temporary short-stay sites to meet increased demand in the summer months.

Hampshire County Council leader Councillor Ken Thornber said: "The key distinction to be made is between permanent sites for gypsy families who are adequately catered for in Hampshire and the increasing need for short-stay sites.

"Short-stay sites would go a long way to reducing the number of unauthorised encampments that are prevalent in Hampshire in the summer months.

"I am keen to work closely with other local authorities to improve the management of illegal encampments and to identify possible temporary sites."

Talks over the future of Peak Copse are now to be held.