Invasion of the migrant squatters: Eviction orders for London mansions DOUBLE as economic crisis drives influx from overseas

By Daily Mail Reporter

PUBLISHED: 15:09 GMT, 9 June 2012 | UPDATED: 15:09 GMT, 9 June 2012

Squatting cases in London's most affluent neighbourhoods have doubled in a year thanks to an influx of migrants fleeing economic problems in their home countries, figures suggest.

Applications for court orders to evict the intruders has doubled in the capital’s most affluent districts - such as Belgravia, Knightsbridge and Notting Hill - in a year.

The surge in the number of squatters has been blamed on poor European migrants, but experts also say the flood of foreign billionaires seeking homes in London are also responsible.

Having bought at the top end of the market they often leave properties vacant and vulnerable pending further costly renovations, allowing squatters to move in.

Recent high-profile cases include the occupation of houses worth up to £33 million in Belgravia, including one reputedly belonging to Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich’s ex-wife, Irina.

FULL STORY: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2156833/Invasion-migrant-sq...

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