Walsall councillor calls for long grass to be cut near homes amid wildfire fears
Several residents have got in touch with Councillor Rose Martin who fear that the unkept areas will act as a ‘tinder box’ in the event of a fire.
A Walsall councillor has raised concerns about overgrown grass across Pelsall, Aldridge and Brownhills as dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires.
Several residents have got in touch with Councillor Rose Martin who fear that the unkept areas will act as a ‘tinder box’ in the event of a fire.
One local told the councillor that a recent fire on the North Common had flames which were ‘over 10 metres’ high and winds threatened to carry it across the canal to Nest Common.
The resident said much of the area had been chosen for rewilding by Walsall and claims the grass has reached two metres in height.
Another resident on the Windrush estate said a green space near their home has been left to grow wild this year and has become a ‘significant fire hazard’.
Councillor Rose Martin has called on the council to review areas of long grass near properties and ‘get it cut’.
The Pelsall councillor said: “I’ve had such a lot of people who are really concerned about these wildfires. The interesting thing that concerns me is that parts of the common in Pelsall have peat underneath them. If that sets the light, we are in trouble.
“Fortunately, the common has been mowed, but there are other parts that are close to houses that haven’t.
“I feel I’m making a reasonable statement to the council, if there’s any long grass near to properties, get it cut. This will act as a barrier if some idiot drops a cigarette.
“I’m concerned about the wildfires and residents are, understandably, fearful.
“If it’s private land, then the council should be able to tell the landowner to cut the grass or do the work and send them a bill.”
Councillor Martin also said there should be a phone number for residents to inform the council of areas they think are at higher risk.
She said: “Residents would feel safer if the council were being proactive in looking at areas that could ignite in fire close to properties.”
Walsall Council has been approached for statement.
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.