Meriden Gypsy camp protesters vow to stay despite eviction threat

From the Birmingham Post

A GROUP of protesters who set up a counter camp to monitor the activities of gypsies on greenbelt land, have vowed to stay despite a looming deadline to leave.

Residents Against Inappropriate Development moved on to Eaves Green Lane in Meriden, after a group of Travellers set up an illegal camp there, nearly two years ago.

The gypsies, led by Noah Burton, have agreed to leave the site in 12 months following a High Court Hearing last month.

But RAID, who, like the Travellers, did not have planning permission for their camp, are currently facing eviction at the end of the month.

RAID, led by David McGrath, wrote to Anne Brereton, Director of Places at Solihull Borough Council and Ken Meeson, council leader, asking them to review its enforcement decision and allow a new deadline of March 31, 2013.

He has also requested “crisis talks” to head off a potential stand-off between the council and RAID.

In the letter, Mr McGrath said RAID wanted to stay as long as the travellers were there to fully monitor their actions.

They said they were prepared to stay unsheltered on land and verges around the site, which would raise health and safety concerns.

He also claimed that many members of the public do not believe that the council’s voluntary agreement with the travellers will stick and they are expecting the Travellers will lodge further appeals.

Mr McGrath said: “12 months is the limit for unlawful occupation by the developers. A new negotiated settlement with residents is therefore just and proportionate.

“We are talking justice, equality is not just an issue that applies to Travellers.”

Mr McGrath said “the settled community has rights too” and it is not right to face evict the group while giving the travellers a year.

He said: “We are expecting to have crisis talks with the council as soon as can be arranged to head off this looming situation.”

RAID campaigners have set up an awning, shelter and wood burner at a builder’s yard to help their 24-hour vigil, which has lasted more than 700 days.