Birmingham City Council digs trenches to prevent illegal encampments

Birmingham City Council has begun digging defensive trenches around several parks to prevent unlawful traveller encampments. The measure follows a summer of what officials described as a ‘whack-a-mole’ situation, where legal efforts to clear caravans from public land resulted in groups quickly relocating to different areas.

Specific sites where trenches or concrete barriers have been installed include Daisy Farm Park in Highter’s Heath, Manningford Park in Druids Heath, and Chinn Brook Recreation Ground in Yardley Wood. A council spokesperson stated that increased pressures from encampments required the consideration of a ‘wider range of preventative measures’ to safeguard public open spaces.

Local residents and volunteer groups have expressed frustration with the strategy. Members of the Friends of Chinn Brook group criticized the council’s approach, noting that they have been burdened with clearing significant amounts of waste left behind by encampments. Some residents reported that the environmental impact, including human waste, had made certain areas unsafe for families during the summer months.