Concern raised about beggars and rough sleepers at busy Great Barr shopping junction

Great Barr: A meeting was held to talk about beggars and rough sleepers at Scott Arms junction. Drivers often see people asking for spare change while waiting at traffic lights.

There are also reports of people sleeping outside shops along the A34 Walsall Road. Councillors mentioned that police and environmental officers are patrolling the area, along with the homeless team.

On Saturday, a ‘street surgery’ took place at the Scott Arms Pub. Locals and businesses met with police and councillors to share their concerns.

Newton Labour Councillors shared on Facebook that police reassured them about ongoing efforts to address issues with rough sleepers and panhandlers at the busy junction.

The A34 is a major route, connecting to the M6 and M5. Drivers often wait several minutes for the lights to change at nearby junctions. Previously, some motorists were approached by women offering to clean their windscreens.