Residents in Birmingham say they are "living in fear" after a group of travellers set up an illegal camp on parkland near an Asda supermarket. The encampment, believed to be the largest in the city this year, consists of more than 40 caravans, motorhomes, and other vehicles.
Illegal Camp Appears Overnight
The travellers arrived at Old Quarry Park in Barnes Hill on Tuesday night (9 June). Aerial photographs show the playing fields scarred by vehicle tracks. Luxury cars with Irish number plates were also spotted on the green space, which is usually popular with families and dog walkers.
Residents Express Fear and Frustration
One local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "They came once it got dark on Tuesday. We know there have been travellers pitching up around the city, and they have had issues with horrendous mess and thefts, so we are a bit on edge. They need somewhere to go, we appreciate that, but that place should not be here. There's lots of families around here who are now living in fear and dare not go over there."
The unauthorised camp is located close to an Asda supermarket, a fire station, and a girls' secondary school, adding to residents' concerns.
Council Response
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: "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. Details of the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment carried out and updated in 2019 can be found on our website."
The council has not yet confirmed when it will take action to remove the camp.
