Birmingham City Council has cancelled a scheduled visit of its Mobile Household Waste Centres to Highfield Farm Recreation Ground in Quinton after travellers set up an unauthorised encampment on the site, making it unsafe for council crews to operate.
Encampment Forces Cancellation
A large convoy of caravans, vehicles, and horses has occupied the play park since Monday evening, August 5. The council's tip trucks were due to visit the park so residents could dispose of their unwanted household waste, but the presence of the encampment has forced their cancellation.
Councillor Sam Forsyth confirmed the decision on Friday morning, stating that the site was no longer deemed 'safe' for the crews. She expressed her apologies and said she is pressing for a new date to be scheduled so residents can still dispose of their waste.
Residents' Concerns
Locals have voiced their dismay at the encampment, with horses seen trotting freely along Highfield Lane, near a blind bend, earlier in the week. The incursion consists of dozens of caravans and is located opposite Four Dwellings School, adding to residents' concerns about safety and disruption.
Councillor Dr Nagu Penakacherla said on his Facebook page: "I am aware of the situation in Highfield Farm Recreation Ground. I reported this issue to the council, and they assured me they would resolve it asap. The local community deserves to enjoy this recreation ground without disruption. I will be monitoring the situation closely to ensure the promised action is taken."
Council's Response
Birmingham City Council has been contacted regarding an eviction date. Earlier this week, the council said it was "committed to actively protecting its land and will take steps to recover this land where unauthorised encampments encroach upon it."
Councillor Forsyth posted: "Due to the unauthorised encampment, the site is no longer safe for the crews. Really sorry. I’m pushing for another visit soon."
Community Calls for Action
The situation has sparked frustration among residents, who are calling for swift action to reclaim the public space. Councillor Penakacherla urged the community to share his post to show the council that residents are watching and expecting action, saying: "If you care about keeping our public spaces safe, clean, and accessible for everyone, please share this post so the council knows residents are watching and expecting action."
The council has not yet provided a specific timeline for eviction, but residents are hopeful that the promised steps will be taken soon to restore the recreation ground for public use.
