THREE earth mounds and more than 20 metal and plastic bollards could be used to stop illegal encampments in Eastleigh.

Funds of £12,000 could be used to stop illegal encampment on the Lakeside Estate.

These measures will also prevent cars parking on areas of open space which has become an issue over the past few months, according to the borough council.

The mounds are reportedly the most sustainable option, as they require little or no ongoing maintenance and can be seeded with a wildflower “providing a more attractive environment and supporting local wildlife”.

Councillors recommended that £12,000 is allocated from developers’ contributions.

A decision will be made whether to set aside the money during the Eastleigh Local Area Committee meeting tonight at 7pm.

Meanwhile, police have vowed to crack down on racism aimed at Hampshire’s travelling community.

They have appealed for any victims of racist abuse to come forward.

Figures revealed by the Traveller Movement show that some 91 per cent of travellers reported discrimination due to their ethnicity.

The national charity champions human rights for ethnic minority Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people.

The statistics were posted on social media by Waterside Police, whose officers said that Gypsies, Travellers and Roma “support and enrich society”.

A police spokesperson said: “Any crime perpetuated through ignorance, prejudice or hate is wholly unacceptable.

“We would encourage anyone who suffers this to report it to us, this can be done online on our website or by calling 101, or 999 if it is an emergency.”