Glenrothes’ leading councillor has called for understanding as Traveller groups continue to stop in the town.
Councillor Bill Brown said that those establishing illegal camps must show sensitivity towards residents and clean up any mess they create.
Urging people to contact Fife Council should they have any concerns, Mr Brown was speaking after several caravans arrived at the Whitehill Industrial Estate this week, the first major group of the summer.
With the issue having been a source of concern to residents and business owners for several years, he said that common sense could prevent any issues arising.
“I would encourage any Travelling people to look after the site, wherever that might be,” said Mr Brown.
“It is understandable that they are travelling and moving on from place to place, but it is important that they do not leave any mess.
“I think that is often what a lot of the public worry about, but if there is no trouble then it is possible for everyone to live together harmoniously.
“Nobody wants any sort of aggravation.”
Several caravans have established a camp at a dead end within the Whitehill Industrial Estate, the latest group of Travellers to have descended on the town so far this summer.
The isolation provided by industrial estates means that they are often used by visiting groups, however, landowners and Fife Council can incur huge legal fees in trying to move Travellers on, while waste left behind can cost thousands of pounds to clear up.
Glenrothes has always proven popular with Gypsy Traveller groups, with figures produced earlier this year revealing that the town was home to more than a quarter of all illegal camps in Fife in 2015.
Mr Brown said that anybody with concerns should immediately contact the local authority.
“As soon as people see an encampment being established then they need to contact Fife Council,” he added.
“I would encourage people to do this as the council has an officer that can speak to the Travellers and encourage them to move on.
“If they do not or refuse, then Fife Council will then take steps to move them on.”