Black Country road to close today for commemoration of fallen who worked at Blackheath factory

A road closure will be in place in Blackheath today (March 14) to make way for a special service to mark the installation of a plaque to commemorate fallen soldiers.

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The civic event is being held this afternoon at the junctions of Carnegie Road with Yew Tree Lane and and Duke Street in Blackheath

It is being held to honour the workers of the TW Lench Factory who gave their lives in service to their country and their community. Organiser Sandwell Council said parts of Carnegie Road and the surrounding streets will be closed due to a "good response" from the community.

The affected roads. Image: one.network
The affected roads. Image: one.network

The roads are expected to be shut between 1.30pm and 4pm.

Thomas William Lench Ltd (TW Lench) was a renowned manufacturer of nuts, bolts, and fasteners, operating for more than a century in Blackheath.

Ex-servicemen from Blackheath company T W Lench gathered at Oldbury's Park Lane Cenotaph to remember the dead of two world wars when this photograph was taken on Armistice Day in November, 1974
Ex-servicemen from Blackheath company TW Lench at Oldbury's Park Lane Cenotaph on Armistice Day 1974

The stone plaque is of significant historical value but had had been kept in storage for many years. It has now been fully restored and a formal re‑dedication service is being held today to mark the relaying.

The council stated: "This plaque represents an important part of our local heritage, and its story is closely tied to the history of our community. A number of residents with a personal, family, or historical connection to the plaque will be coming along to the occasion.

"This event offers a meaningful opportunity to honour the past, celebrate our shared history, and bring together those who continue to value the legacy of the Lench family within our community."

Those attending are being advised to arrive early due to the road closure.