A convoy of travellers was today camped just yards from a Telford technology firm, blocking access to its new £1 million extension.

Bosses at VA Tech in Halesfield 9 were today attempting to get about eight caravans and other vehicles moved, claiming that the firm’s employees were refusing to go in to work after dark.

The firm, which builds machines and supplies technology to the aerospace industry, had opened the new extension, which boosted its workforce from 55 to about 80, last week.

Staff were about to move into the extension, which has doubled the size of the firm’s premises, when the travellers arrived on Thursday.

Jim Byrne, managing director, said: “Lo and behold, since Thursday we have had a large encampment of gipsies. 

“We couldn’t even get into our facility. They are parked in the highway, that is the problem, directly outside the new gates.”

Mr Byrne said it had not stopped their work but affected the company and staff were unwilling to work after dark.

He said they also had a constant stream of visitors and having the travellers there affected the firm’s image.

Mr Byrne said they had just until the end of the month to vacate a nearby building being using temporarily while the construction of the extension was being carried out.

He said there were also horses tethered to fences, preventing members of the public from walking on the pavements.

Mr Byrne said they had contacted Telford & Wrekin Council and the police but had had no luck in getting something done.

He said he has also contacted the Telford MP David Wright.

Councillor Miles Hosken, for Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “The current traveller encampment on Halesfield 9 is on council land. 

“The site has been visited by our gipsy and traveller liaison officer and a notice to quit was issued last week. 

“We will be working with all parties and agencies involved to take further enforcement action if necessary.”

Chris Ammonds, Telford police spokesman, said: “We are aware of the situation and have asked our local policing team to attempt to secure a resolution and move them on. 

“We are working with our partners to ensure that and ensure the least disruption and upset as possible to the businesses there.”