Dozens of caravans have taken over a Birmingham play park, with new images showing vehicles parked across the green space and close to outdoor gym equipment. The unauthorised encampment moved onto Highfield Lane Recreation Ground, opposite Four Dwellings School in Quinton, as night fell on Monday, August 5.
More vehicles continued to arrive on Tuesday, and fresh photographs reveal caravans spread all over the field, which would normally be bustling with families enjoying the summer holidays. Horses were also seen roaming freely on the site, while efforts were underway to evict the group.
Local reaction and concerns
One local resident said she "had never seen so many on there," while another branded the situation as a "joke." The sudden influx has disrupted the usual recreational use of the park, which is popular with children and fitness enthusiasts alike.
The encampment has also raised concerns about a scheduled visit by the council's household waste recycling trucks on Saturday. Councillor Sam Quinton highlighted the threat, stating: "We have an unauthorised encampment on Highfield Lane Rec with more vehicles moving in under the cover of darkness. The gate locks were cut. This seriously threatens the tip trucks coming here on Saturday. I have contacted the police & council."
Official responses
Birmingham City Council said it was "committed to actively protecting its land and will take steps to recover this land where unauthorised encampments encroach upon it." The council is working with partners to address the situation.
West Midlands Police added: "We're aware of travellers on the recreation ground on Highfield Lane, Quinton and we are liaising with our partners to resolve the situation."
The council and police are coordinating efforts to remove the encampment and restore the park for public use. Residents are urged to report any further issues to the authorities.
