A convoy of caravans and vehicles have set up a camp on land owned by the University of Birmingham
Travellers move onto University of Birmingham land in Selly Oak
A large group of travellers have set up a camp on land owned by the University of Birmingham.
The convoy of caravans and other vehicles have parked up on Westhill Close, in Selly Oak, in front of Grade II listed cottages designed by Bournville Trust architect William Alexander Harvey.
On Thursday, gas cannisters, camping equipment and tables could be seen across a lawn belonging to the Arts and Crafts properties in footage taken at the site.
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The University said are aware of the illegal incursion and are providing a 24 hour security presence.
They are also working with West Midlands Police and are taking steps to evict the travellers.
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A University of Birmingham spokesperson said: “We are aware that an unauthorised traveller encampment has been set up on university-owned land and are taking all necessary steps to rectify the situation, including liaising with WM Police.
“The safety of our community is of paramount importance, and we are providing a visible 24/7 presence from our Security and Safety team.”
The historic cottages have been empty and boarded up for more than a decade.
Travellers have been setting up camps at several sites across the city in the last few months.
It was reported that around 20 caravans drove onto Woodgate Valley Country Park on the afternoon of Bank Holiday Monday.
On Tuesday, residents described seeing “loads of police” on Lowhill Lane, in the Longbridge area, after a group moved on to the MG car site.
A police spokesman said: “We were called to Lowhill Lane just after 10am yesterday (Tues) after a group of travellers set up an unauthorised encampment.
“The group left after we served a notice on them.”