'They'll cause chaos': Families warn against Walsall traveller sites
Residents have spoken of their fears over the prospect of six new travellers sites in Walsall, saying it will bring 'chaos' to the borough.
The six sites planned are in Goscote Lodge Crescent, Goscote Lane, Dolphin Close, two in Mill Street and Foster Street and will welcome 100 caravans in total.
Around 20 residents attended a meeting to discuss the controversial proposals with Walsall Councillor Pete Smith, who wanted to fully inform his constituents about the plans.
David Johns, who lives in Coalpool Lane, said at the meeting: "Travellers don't respect our laws at all.
"Eventually they'll just cause chaos and move on, leaving us to pick up the pieces.
"I have an objection against people who pay nothing to society, keep taking and giving absolutely nothing back.
"The gypsy community has already been well looked after in this area. Why is there a need for another six sites in this borough alone?"
An eight-week consultation has been launched into the plans and will run until November 2.
Another resident at Wednesday's meeting, who did not want to be named, said: "Our houses will depreciate in value, the area will be driven down and people will be scared and intimidated by the masses of caravans all grouped together."
Objection letters and response forms were handed out at the meeting for residents to submit arguments against the site proposals.
Councillor Smith said he would rather some of the earmarked sites used for new affordable housing.
In the past 10 years, a large number of properties have been demolished in Walsall with promises of regeneration which are now underway through the Bricks and Mortar project.
Councillor Smith said: "I have been flooded with enquiries about this issue. I do believe the priority for the Foster Street and Mill Street sites should be the Bricks and Mortar programme in progress.
"These are already very busy and narrow roads with lots of congestion, so placing caravans down there won't help matters.
"It is my duty to let my constituents know what is happening in their area. The way it works is if you do not voice an objection it will be assumed you are in approval of plans."
A meeting where councils officials will be present to answer questions will now take place on Thursday at Blakenall Village Conference Centre in Walsall from 7-8.30pm.
