Fewer than a dozen caravans have arrived at Witton Lakes in Stockland Green, Birmingham, marking a return of travellers to the popular walking spot. The caravans pulled onto the fields on Monday, September 28, according to local councillor Amar Khan.
Eviction proceedings under way
Coun Khan confirmed that eviction proceedings are already in motion. He said the group should leave the site before the end of the week. A welfare check has been carried out following discussions with the council, and a notice was issued on the day of arrival.
“I have been informed the travellers have returned to Witton Lakes,” Coun Khan said. “Following discussions with the council, I understand a welfare check has been carried out and a notice has been issued today. We are hopeful the travellers will leave the site before the end of the week.”
Park features and local use
Witton Lakes is a popular park featuring open grassland, wooded areas and wild flower meadows. The north Birmingham cycle route runs through the surrounding park en-route to Sutton Park, and there is a mile-long walking route used by locals.
Birmingham City Council was contacted for a comment but said previously it was “committed to actively protecting its land and will take steps to recover this land where unauthorised encampments encroach upon it.”
Previous incident in July
This is not the first time travellers have occupied the site. An estimated 40 caravans and vehicles pulled onto Witton Lakes on July 6. Images taken from the scene at that time showed washing hanging from a makeshift line and horses roaming on grass.
The council’s previous statement on unauthorised encampments suggests a similar response is likely this time, with steps being taken to recover the land. The travellers are expected to depart by the end of the week, according to Coun Khan.
