Footage shows an ''unauthorised'' encampment of van dwellers

- after dozens of caravans lined up near a busy bypass.

More than 20 vans have been pictured - with several looking abandoned and derelict.

The area is also heavily littered with discarded items such as mattresses, chairs, bin bags and sofas along the street.

Some vans have also been spotted with broken windows, flat tyres and open doors.

These are located between Bristol and Bath at Durley Hill in Keynsham.

Videos have emerged on social media calling the encampment the new "caravan city". "

Commenting online, some have backed-up van dwellers while others have called it an 'eyesore'.

One said: "Walked passed there the other day, lady asked if I want a cup of tea lovely people."

While another added: "It's terrible that's so many people are forced to live in vans or caravans on roadside because they can't afford housing.. why not lots more government housing!"

Another quoted: "Surely if these people did not live in these caravans they would be totally homeless and even more vulnerable."

While another said: "I sympathise with them in some ways but could they at least keep it tidy that is a s*** hole."

A fifth added: "Think about all the mess they leave we're all there waste going I bet it's in the bushes behind"

And another said: "Won't be moving to Keynsham any time soon then."

Councillors for Keynsham north George Leach and Alex Beaumont said to have raised this issue with council officers.

Cllr Beaumont said they are working to ensure that action is taken to address the "unathorised encampment"."

He added: "We appreciate this is a complicated issue, so we hope it is resolved soon."

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Communications and Community, said: "We are aware of the unauthorised encampment at Durley Hill and are working to ensure that appropriate action is taken to address it, including offering support to individuals who may need it."