ILLEGAL traveller encampments on council-owned land across Sandwell cost ratepayers more than £250,000, latest figures reveal.

The massive clean-up and legal bills cover the 12 months up to April – since when the council has already had to deal with more than 40 invasions.

Residents are now being asked their views on how the council and West Midlands Police deal with unauthorised and illegal camps.

Documents setting out how the council and police will deal with the problem in the future include the option of using bailiffs and injunctions to protect land at risk of trespass.

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and economic investment Councillor Paul Moore said: “Dealing with illegal encampments cost the council more than £250,000 last year.

“This financial year has already seen more than 40 encampments on our parks and land.

“We want to make it clear to people what powers the police and council have when dealing with travellers and how we can better respond to community concerns in the future.”

Residents can comment on the documents and have until Friday November 11 to have their say.

The documents are available to read and comment on at www.sandwell.gov.uk/illegalencampments

Copies are also available at the Council House, Oldbury, and at all main libraries.