Birmingham Council Issues Eviction Notice as Travellers Return to Swanshurst Park
Birmingham City Council has confirmed that an eviction notice has been served after travellers once again moved onto Swanshurst Park in Billesley. The council expects the travellers to be removed within days, in line with established legal processes.
Repeated Incursions at Family Park
Swanshurst Park has been a frequent location for traveller encampments over the past year. In response to previous incidents, the council installed concrete blocks as a deterrent last August. However, only days after the installation, travellers managed to bypass the barriers and drive back onto the beauty spot.
This latest incursion marks the second time in recent months that travellers have occupied the park. Last month, a similar situation occurred, prompting criticism from Moseley Councillor Izzy Knowles, who expressed concerns about local families feeling fearful.
Councillor Expresses Community Concerns
Cllr Knowles previously stated: "I’ve received reports that a traveller group have moved onto the car park of Swanshurst Park next to the children’s playground, after being evicted from Billesley Common. This is not a suitable place for an encampment and has caused local families to be fearful of taking their children to play during half term holiday."
On Monday, March 23, BirminghamLive discovered that travellers had returned to the family park and contacted the council for comment. The council swiftly responded by confirming the eviction notice had been served.
Council's Response and Legal Process
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: "The council is committed to actively protecting its land and will take steps to recover this land where unauthorised encampments encroach upon it. Our officers have carried out the required welfare checks at Swanshurst Park and a notice has been served to the occupants. Eviction is expected for Thursday, in line with the established legal processes."
The council's approach involves conducting welfare checks before proceeding with eviction, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while addressing community concerns about park usage and safety.
