COUNCIL chiefs in Wyre Forest have spoken of their frustration at being unable to move travellers from a car park in Stourport.

Seven vans arrived at Stourport Leisure Centre car park back in June last year, resulting in complaints from residents, businesses and parish councillors who called for the district authority to take legal action to remove them.

The situation was exasperated in April when a further three vans temporarily set up camp there before being moved on by council officers.

But Wyre Forest District Council leader Marcus Hart said complex legal and housing issues had prevented them from resolving the matter as soon as they would have liked.

And he added they were working to complete all necessary legalities regarding housing issues relating to the encampment and to remove it from the car park.

Councillor Hart said: “We have been working very hard behind the scenes to resolve the situation and remove the encampment, but this is a very complex housing matter and our hands are tied by legal and statutory responsibilities.

“We are desperate for a resolution and sympathise with local residents and businesses and users of the centre and share their frustration.

“I would like to reassure everyone that we will continue to do everything we can to solve the situation as soon as possible.

“We too are very concerned about the length of time this is taking and we will continue to do everything within our power to complete the legal process and resolve the issue at the earliest opportunity.

“In the meantime we will also continue to respond to any local concerns as they arise.”

One resident, who did not wish to be named, told the Shuttle: “Enough is enough. We have all been very patient but they have been there a long time and it is time they were moved on.”