Pelsall bridge yobs hurl stones at drivers

Police have received several reports of the youths hurling objects from the bridge at Fordbrook Lane in Pelsall.

CCTV cameras have been put at the site by the force and Walsall Council to combat the problem.

Councillor Marco Longhi, who covers the Pelsall ward, said he knew about three or four incidents this year.

This included a taxi being damaged after stones were thrown from the bridge. The rear windscreen was broken and bodywork dented, causing £600 worth of damage.

The attack has prompted the council to start discussions with bridge owners Sustrans to redesign it. Ideas include placing nets on either side.

Sgt Mohammed Shaid, of Pelsall neighbourhood police team, said: "The issue of youths congregating on this bridge and throwing missiles at passing motorists is reoccurring.

"Walsall Council is currently working in partnership with the site owners and planning committee regarding a suitable redesign of the bridge to prevent further issues.

He added: "In partnership with Walsall Council anti-social behaviour unit a number of acceptable behaviour contracts have been issued.

"This is the first warning issued to offenders who have apologised for their behaviour and are aware of the consequences should their anti-social behaviour continue."

Plans to redesign the bridge are being discussed, with a formal planning application in the pipeline. Councillor Longhi said he hoped work could be done soon.

"I am very concerned about this as it is something that has not been solved and does not go away," he said. "The consequences of this activity are not worth thinking about as they are so high to motorists.

I would say any work on the re-design of the bridge will cost thousands of pounds, without a shadow of a doubt."