Travellers have once again set up camp at Shard End Country Park in Birmingham, just weeks after their previous incursion. An assortment of caravans and vehicles displaying business logos arrived at the park shortly before the weekend.
Councillor Alan Feeney Reports Open Gates
Councillor Alan Feeney, who visited the site, confirmed that the metal gates were found open. He has since contacted West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council regarding this latest unauthorised encampment. Feeney also urged local residents not to offer any work to the group and stated he would push for enhanced security measures.
“I’m aware that the travellers are back on Shard End Park,” Feeney said. “I have been out, taken a look and have found the metal gates are all open. Whether the padlocks have been cut, or the gates were open anyway, I don’t know. I will be in touch with the council and police in any case. In the meantime, do not give them any work. I have already seen various business vans coming and going. I can only assume the same mess will be left behind, so will speak to the council about stronger defences. In the long run it will certainly be cheaper than the clean-up operation.”
Council Response on Illegal Encampments
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson reiterated the authority’s stance on illegal encampments: “Birmingham City Council is committed to actively protecting its land and will take steps to recover this land where unauthorised encampments encroach upon it. The council has useable transit sites and plots for use by the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community – which is in line with Government policy – and details of the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment carried out and updated in 2019 can be found on our website.”
