Will Showpeople Family Fight Back Against Council Eviction?

In a significant legal battle unfolding in Scotland, Jimmy Stringfellow and his family are fighting eviction from their home in Govan, Glasgow, as local authorities push for redevelopment in the area. This case not only raises questions about property rights but also highlights the cultural heritage of travelling showpeople, as it could set a vital legal precedent regarding children's rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Last updated: 02 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Jimmy Stringfellow faces eviction after more than 40 years at Water Row in Govan.
• The legal case could set a precedent regarding the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
• Glasgow City Council claims the family has no rights to occupy the land.
• Chanel Stringfellow, Jimmy's daughter, argues the offered alternative sites are unsuitable.
• The case begins at the Court of Session and may take months for a decision.

The Context of the Battle

Jimmy Stringfellow stands as a testament to the resilience of a community often overlooked. His family, part of a long line of showpeople, has lived on this site since the 1980s. The area, once a lively hub for travelling fairs, is now a target for regeneration as Glasgow undergoes significant urban development. Over the past few years, the local council has initiated a multi-million-pound project to revitalise the Clyde waterfront, which includes the construction of new homes and infrastructure. This transformation has put immense pressure on longstanding residents like the Stringfellows.

The Legal Proceedings

The legal proceedings initiated by Glasgow City Council are a culmination of years of tension. The council argues that the Stringfellows have no legal right to occupy the land, despite their longstanding presence. This assertion has led to over 20 eviction attempts in the past, with Jimmy claiming victories in each instance. However, the current case is poised to be more consequential, as it may invoke the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which Scotland adopted into law last year.

UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

The UNCRC mandates that children's rights must be considered in all public authority decisions. Just Right Scotland, the legal team representing the Stringfellow family, plans to argue that the eviction would violate their granddaughter's rights to a secure home. This is significant because it is believed to be the first civil court test of the UNCRC in Scotland.

The Stringfellow Family's Story

At the heart of this legal struggle is the Stringfellow family, who have deep-rooted connections to their home. Jimmy's daughter, Chanel, articulates the emotional toll of the situation, especially on her young daughter. Living in the yard has been a significant part of Chanel's life, with memories tied to the land. The notion of being uprooted is not just about losing a physical space; it is about severing ties to family history and identity.

Concerns About Alternative Housing

Chanel has expressed concerns that the alternative housing options proposed by the council do not meet their family's needs. The offered sites are reportedly smaller and lack the necessary space for their lifestyle. This raises critical questions about how well local authorities understand and accommodate the unique requirements of showpeople.

The Impact on Cultural Heritage

The Stringfellows' case underscores broader issues regarding the rights of travelling showpeople in the UK. For many, the lifestyle is not merely a choice but a cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations. Jimmy fears that if they are evicted, it could signal the end of an era for showpeople in Scotland, as there are few left who are willing to stand against such authority.

Legal Protections for Travelling Showpeople

Barbara Bolton from Just Right Scotland highlights that previous laws have recognised the importance of stability for tenants in social housing. The argument is that travelling showpeople should have similar protections, ensuring they can maintain their homes and communities without fear of sudden eviction.

The Broader Implications of the Case

The outcome of this case could have far-reaching effects beyond the Stringfellow family. It may set a precedent that influences how local authorities engage with travelling communities in the future. If the court rules in favour of the Stringfellows, it could strengthen the legal framework protecting the rights of showpeople across Scotland.

What Happens Next?

The initial hearing is set to begin on 2 September 2023, and while it is expected to last about two weeks, the final decision might take much longer. The implications of this case are being closely monitored by various stakeholders, including community advocates and legal experts.

Conclusion

As the Stringfellow family prepares for their legal battle, they embody the struggle of many who face displacement in the name of urban development. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising and protecting cultural identities within modern society. The fight for their home is not just about land; it is about preserving a way of life. Will the court uphold the rights of this travelling family, or will redevelopment prevail? Only time will tell.

#Govan #Showpeople #UNCRC

FAQs

What is the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child?

The UNCRC is an international treaty that outlines the rights of children, including their right to a secure home. It was incorporated into Scots law last year, requiring public authorities to consider children's rights in their decisions.

Why is the Stringfellow family facing eviction?

Glasgow City Council claims the family has no legal right to occupy the land, which is designated for redevelopment. The council has initiated legal proceedings as a last resort after multiple eviction attempts over the years.

What are the implications of this case for travelling showpeople?

If the court rules in favour of the Stringfellow family, it could set a legal precedent protecting the rights of travelling showpeople in Scotland, influencing how local authorities engage with this community in the future.

How long will the court proceedings last?

The initial hearing is expected to last about two weeks, but the final decision may take several months. The case is being closely monitored by various stakeholders.

What alternative housing options have been offered to the Stringfellow family?

The council has proposed alternative sites, but Chanel Stringfellow argues they are unsuitable and smaller than their current home, failing to meet the family's needs.