Commuters have hit out after being left unable to leave their vehicles at a railway station - after travellers once again took over the overflow car park.

Caravans arrived in the car park at Kilwinning station at the end of the week, leaving many commuters with nowhere to park.

The problem has been a recurring one in recent years, with travellers believed to have been evicted from the site at least twice last year.

One local resident said today: "This is now a regular occurrence and ScotRail are doing nothing to stop them keep coming back, constantly leaving the height barrier open."

It is understood the barrier may have been left open to allow Network Rail to have emergency access in case of incidents.

James Ledgerwood, head of economic and community development at ScotRail, said today: "We are aware of the issue at Kilwinning station and we are doing everything we can to make sure that the car park area is free for customers to use.

"ScotRail is committed to providing the best possible journey experience for people using the station, and we are working with our colleagues Network Rail Scotland, and the local authority, to find the best solution."

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of the encampment and our Gypsy Traveller Coordinator has been in contact with Scotrail to offer support if required.@

Last October, Scotrail prepared an eviction notice to force the caravans off the site.
One commuter said at the time: "If you turn up at peak times, there's just nowhere left to park at the station. They are taking up most of the overflow car park.

"I know a few people have been driving to another station to commute to Glasgow because they just can't find a space at Kilwinning."