A group of pro-independence campaigners have lost their legal battle to camp outside the Scottish Parliament in a permanent vigil until Scottish independence is achieved.

Lord Turnbull ruled at the Court of Session in Edinburgh that Holyrood’s corporate body can now proceed with “legal authority” to remove the protesters.

The actions of the group were branded “selfish” and “arrogant” by the senior judge.

He said: “In essence the respondents’ position seems to be that their rights under article 10 and 11 should trump both the petitioner’s right to possession and the rights of others to enjoy undisturbed use of the grounds.

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“This rather selfish or even arrogant approach was well illustrated in two ways.

“First by the way in which the respondents felt able to hold a barbecue and social gathering in and around the area of the camp which they openly advertised on social media.

“Second, the affidavits provided, as taken along with the photographs, make it plain that damage has been caused to the grounds of the Parliament by vehicles being parked on the grassed areas and by other means”.

Lord Turnbull continued: “No explanation has been offered to explain this, to my mind, quite remarkable conduct. It would be perfectly obvious to anyone parking their vehicle on the grassed area of the grounds of the Scottish Parliament that to do so would cause damage.

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“That conduct displays open disregard for the rights of others to enjoy the grounds in their undisturbed form”.

During the case one protester, Richard McFarlane, told the judge Jesus Christ communicated with the group and was asking Lord Turnball to halt the proceedings.

McFarlane said: “We have spoken to Jesus who is here for his second coming and he would like you to stop this if you can please.”

The Scottish Parliament’s corporate body argue the camp inhibits other members of the public using the parliament’s facilities.

The decision was welcomed by Holyrood officials.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Parliament said: “The corporate body regrets that it was forced to take this action however given the protesters refusal to vacate the land or consider alternative options to make their protest, we were left with no choice.

“We took this action to protect the rights of all those who wish to use and access Parliament land and we welcome Lord Turnbull’s judgement in our favour today.”

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Parliamentary officials told MSPs on Wednesday afternoon in an email that Holyrood will “seek discussions” with those camped outside “to agree plans for a peaceful removal of the camp from Parliament property”.

Protesters opened the camp in November, 2015. The group were inspired by campaigners who maintained a vigil for Scottish devolution from 1992 until a referendum on the question was held and passed in 1997.