Residents feel intimidated by ‘invasion’
BIRMINGHAM City Council has been accused of being an “easy touch” when dealing with illegally camped travellers.
Councillor Des Flood said some residents had been left frightened after about 50 caravans descended on the Cocks Moors Woods Leisure Centre in Kings Heath on February 1.
He called on the council to use bailiffs to evict the convoy within 24 hours, as “intimidated” locals boycott the site.
Cllr Flood (Conservative, Bartley Green) said: “I am disappointed to see that having requested the council to use bailiffs to remove travellers within 24 hours – like they do at Walsall Council – that we have another invasion of travellers at Cocks Moors Woods Leisure Centre.
“Some of my residents have contacted me to say that they are frightened to play golf at the centre – they feel intimidated.
“Once again, citizens of Birmingham are being deprived from using their leisure facilities, similar to the invasions of parks and play areas in Bartley Green and Weoley Castle last year.
“Our city council is seen as an easy touch for these travellers and we are made to look ineffective. We need action – not words!”
This is the second time in six months that travellers have set in camp in the car park.
In November, a convoy moved in, shocking users and prompting the council to pledge further