MP wants action over camps at beauty spot

LETTER TO COUNCIL CHIEF EXECUTIVE DEMANDS 'FAILINGS' ARE ADDRESSED

- ALEXANDER BROCK Local Democracy Reporter

A MIDLAND MP has called on Birmingham City Council to take action to “protect” a beauty spot from unauthorised encampments.

In recent weeks and months, caravans have been spotted parked up at sites across Birmingham in areas such as Longbridge, Bartley Green, Yardley, Billesley and Kings Heath.

Now, Bromsgrove Conservative MP Bradley Thomas has written to Birmingham Council’s chief executive over encampments in Cofton Park, close to the Worcestershire border.

Mr Thomas said he had been contacted by concerned Cofton Hackett residents after an unauthorised encampment appeared on the park.

“Cofton Park is a much-loved park but more and more frequently travellers are setting up illegal encampments there,” he claimed.

“This is having a huge impact on the quality of life of residents in Cofton Hackett.”

He added in a statement that the incursions were “very distressing for local residents” due to concerns over disruption, antisocial behaviour and the “rubbish and filth that is left behind when they depart.”