D-Day for 'Squirrel Dan'

He was given five months to vacate a cabin in the woods

A man who lives off-grid on publically owned land near Ramsey, faces eviction later today.

Dan Richardson, also known as "Squirrel Dan" was given five months to vacate a cabin erected on the publically owned land, last year after a court ruled he was trespassing.

Mr Richardson has lived in Nut Glen since 2018.

He spoke to Chanelle Sukhoo:

In a statement, DEFA said:

"The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) has engaged with Mr Richardson to explain the reasons that he must vacate the department’s land at Nut Glen.
 
Last year a court found in favour of DEFA’s ownership and right to secure possession of the land.

The cabin is built without either planning approval or the Department’s consent, as land-owner. This cannot be condoned or ignored.
 
The Department has a duty to protect public land for the enjoyment of everyone.

The Department’s rural estate is a popular visitor venue which needs to be protected to ensure that it can continue to be enjoyed by the wide range of day visitors.
 
DEFA sincerely hopes that Mr Richardson will respect the findings of the court and the Department’s goal to protect these wonderful natural assets by vacating the land amicably.

The Department has offered support with the dismantling and storage of the cabin and also signposted related supporting agencies."