With its rolling fields, sprawling orchards and distinctive oast houses, Kent has long been celebrated as the Garden of England. But in recent years, the county has acquired a rather less welcome reputation – as a hotspot for unauthorised traveller developments. Villagers say the spate of building work has dramatically altered the character of their local area and threatens to hammer local house prices. But tell that to villagers who have watched an unauthorised site spring up on their doorstep, and they're unlikely to be convinced. One tactic used by some unscrupulous developers is to begin building work hours before a bank holiday, when council staff will be at home.