Travellers Establish Unauthorised Camp at Birmingham's Sheldon Country Park
A group of Travellers has set up an encampment in the main car park of Sheldon Country Park in Birmingham, as the Easter holiday period commences. Volunteers from the Friends of Sheldon Park reported the arrival of what appeared to be at least five caravans in a Facebook post on Sunday evening.
The volunteer group stated that the camp had been reported to relevant council officers for handling. This incident adds to a series of similar occurrences at the popular park over the past year.
Council Response and Previous Incidents
Paul Tilsley, the council member for Sheldon, informed the Daily Mail that the Travellers have been served with a notice to leave the site. He described the park as having been 'invaded' at least four times in the last twelve months, labelling it a 'constant problem'.
Mr Tilsley expressed concerns that such groups live 'rent-free', engage in anti-social behaviour, and leave behind rubbish that requires cleaning by others upon eviction. He emphasised the pattern of Travellers moving between parks and dumping waste for council cleanup.
Birmingham City Council confirmed on Monday that it would 'take steps to recover land where unauthorised encampments encroach upon it'. The council also noted that the Travellers had been served with 'all the relevant notices' and were expected to depart within days.
About Sheldon Country Park
Located on the eastern side of Birmingham, Sheldon Country Park spans 300 acres and is a favoured destination for families and children, offering free entry throughout the year. The park features a variety of animals, including Jersey cattle, pigs, goats, geese, and ponies.
Described by Birmingham City Council as a 'countryside in the city' and a 'wildlife haven', the park is situated near the city's airport. It also houses the 17th-century Old Rectory Farm, a restored former dairy that showcases traditional farming methods to visitors.
Council's Provision for Traveller Community
In a previous statement, Birmingham City Council highlighted that it maintains 'usable transit sites and plots for use by the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community', aligning with Government policy. This provision aims to offer authorised alternatives to unauthorised encampments.
The Daily Mail has contacted Birmingham City Council to verify the current status of the camp at Sheldon Park, as the situation develops amidst ongoing council efforts to manage such encampments.
