Homeless set up camp next to nature reserve

The homeless people have put up three tents just off a remote part of the Bromwich Parade path, which runs along the St John's side of the River Severn, near Chapter Meadows.

Sharon van Antwerpan, of Worcester Rough Sleepers Project, based at St Swithin's Institute, The Trinity, said they deliberately chose the site because it is out of the way.

"They are looking after the area," said Ms van Antwerpan. "They realise they can't stay there. We are trying to work with the council to see if they can stay while we find somewhere for them to go."

The men and women used to sleep at a warehouse in Diglis until it was demolished a couple of months ago. At present there are 19 rough sleepers in Worcester. This does not include those who stay at St Paul's Hostel, a direct access shelter that can sleep 46 people and is full most nights.

Ms van Antwerpan said the city needed another such shelter but pointed out that the number of rough sleepers in Worcester was average compared with similar-sized cities. Warwick Neal, the city council's conservation officer, said he has notified the rough sleepers, who have been there for several weeks, to move on.

"In a letter, I mentioned that the activities they are doing are of a detriment to the area, but obviously they have to have somewhere to go so there is a social issue," he said. Talks are being held between the council and the Diocese of Worcester, which owns the land. When the Worcester News visited the site there were three tents. There was also a patch of scorched earth where a fire had been lit. No one from the Diocese of Worcester was available for comment.