Travellers have returned to West Heath Park in Birmingham for the second time in a month, sparking renewed frustration among local residents. Caravans and other vehicles have once again occupied the green space off Oddingley Road, with reports indicating that mobile homes are blocking pedestrian pathways through the park. This latest incursion comes just weeks after a previous encampment was cleared from the same site.
Second Encampment in Weeks
According to local reports, the travellers moved onto West Heath Park earlier this week, setting up a camp that includes several caravans, cars, and other vehicles. Residents have expressed anger over the repeated occupation, particularly noting that waste was left strewn across the fields after the travellers' last departure. One local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "It's disheartening to see the park being used like this again. We love our green spaces and it's frustrating to see them treated with such disrespect."
Council Vows Action
Birmingham City Council has previously stated its commitment to protecting its land from unauthorised encampments. In a statement, the council said: "Birmingham City Council is committed to actively protecting its land and will take steps to recover this land where unauthorised encampments encroach upon it. The council has useable transit sites and plots for use by the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community – which is in line with Government policy." The council also referenced the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment carried out and updated in 2019, which details the availability of alternative sites in the city.
Community Impact
The repeated occupation has raised concerns about the maintenance and safety of West Heath Park. Pedestrian pathways have been blocked, forcing residents to walk on grass or roads. There are also fears about the potential for increased litter and damage to the park's facilities. Local councillors have been contacted by concerned constituents calling for a permanent solution. One councillor, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated: "We need a long-term approach that balances the needs of the travelling community with those of local residents. But repeatedly coming back to the same park is not acceptable."
Legal and Policy Context
Under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, police have powers to direct trespassers to leave land if they have caused damage, used threatening behaviour, or have six or more vehicles. However, the council often relies on civil procedures to remove unauthorised encampments. The availability of transit sites is a key factor; the council claims it has suitable sites, but some travellers argue they are insufficient or not adequately maintained. The 2019 Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment identified a need for additional pitches across the city, but progress on delivering new sites has been slow.
Residents' Frustration Mounts
Social media groups in the area have been flooded with comments from angry residents. Many have called for stronger enforcement and better security at the park. Some have suggested installing barriers to prevent vehicle access, while others have urged the council to work more closely with the travelling community to find a mutually agreeable solution. A spokesperson for a local community group said: "We want to live in harmony with all communities, but this repeated occupation feels like an invasion of our public space. We need the council to act swiftly and decisively."
Council Response and Future Steps
Birmingham City Council has not yet issued a statement specifically about this latest encampment, but it is expected to begin the legal process to secure eviction. The council's website advises that it will "take steps to recover this land" and encourages the public to report unauthorised encampments via its online portal. In the meantime, residents are advised to avoid confrontation and to contact the council with any concerns. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected in the coming days.
