More than 140 households in Quinton were left frustrated on Saturday morning after Birmingham City Council scrapped a scheduled visit from its Household Waste Recycling Centres (tip trucks) because travellers had set up an unauthorised encampment on Highfield Farm Recreational Green.
The mobile recycling service was due to operate from 8am until midday on August 8, but the council announced the cancellation on Friday, August 7, citing the ongoing occupation of the site since Monday evening, August 3.
Residents Turned Away with Full Vehicles
Despite the announcement, an estimated 140 people were unaware of the change and arrived with vehicles packed with rubbish, only to be turned away by officials. The wasted trip added to the growing frustration among locals who have been unable to use the park for nearly a week.
Councillor Sam Forsyth, who represents the Quinton ward, reported that three horses and a foal were seen trotting down Highfield Lane in the early hours of Saturday. She captured a photograph of one horse chewing through a resident's front garden, highlighting the disruption caused by the encampment.
Eviction Papers Served
In an update, Councillor Forsyth confirmed that legal steps are underway to remove the travellers. "The eviction papers have been served and hopefully they should be gone by Monday or Tuesday before the bailiffs come," she said.
She described the situation as "ridiculous," noting that the community is deeply frustrated. "There have been horses loose this morning on Highfield Lane and in residents' gardens. The playgrounds and multi-use games area used for basketball were empty. This area should be full of people," she added.
Council's Commitment to Reclaim Land
Earlier this week, Birmingham City Council reiterated its stance on unauthorised encampments. A 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."
The cancellation of the tip truck visit is the latest in a series of disruptions for Quinton residents, who have had limited access to the recreational green since the travellers arrived. The site, which includes playgrounds and a basketball court, has been largely empty, with residents avoiding the area.
Community Impact
Local residents have expressed their dismay over the prolonged occupation, which has prevented them from using the park for leisure and exercise. The council's decision to cancel the recycling service has compounded the inconvenience, forcing some to store rubbish at home or travel to other disposal sites.
Councillor Forsyth urged residents to stay patient, assuring them that the eviction process is underway. She also advised residents to check council updates for any rescheduled tip truck visits.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by local authorities in managing unauthorised encampments while balancing the needs of the wider community. Birmingham City Council has pledged to take swift action to restore the park to public use.
