West Midlands council ‘committed to tackle future fire risks’ after homes destroyed in devastating blaze

Birmingham Council has said it is committed to tackling future fire risks after homes were destroyed in a devastating blaze over the summer.

It’s been over a month since flames swept across parts of the West Midlands amidst hot weather, with Gorleston Road in Warstock being one of the affected areas.

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The fire in the south Birmingham suburb on August 13 scorched several back gardens near Daisy Farm Park while a row of six homes were devastated and remain fenced off.

Residents living in the area recently spoke out about the harrowing scenes they experienced and the deep shock that followed, with one woman saying it was a “miracle” they still had a house.

Another local, 70-year-old Paul Smith, said flames tore through the back garden fences like an “express line” and added that he had lost family pets because of the blaze.

He also claimed Daisy Farm Park had suffered multiple smaller fires prior to August 13 and called for more action in the future to maintain the long grass in the green space.

The council has since issued a response amid such concern, telling residents it is important “not to speculate” on the cause of the incident.

It added it was committed to mitigating future fire risks while also “safeguarding biodiversity and the wider natural environment”.

“We understand why residents are asking questions about how the fire started and whether anything could have prevented it,” a council spokesperson said. “The cause of the fire remains under investigation by West Midlands Fire Service.

“While dry vegetation can contribute to the spread of fires, it is important not to speculate on the cause of this incident.

“The prolonged hot and dry conditions experienced this summer have increased fire risks across the country and we continue to review what more can be done across our services to adapt to these challenges.

“We will undertake a review of grounds maintenance operations to identify opportunities for improvement and, where appropriate, make changes to our management approach.

“The council is committed to mitigating future fire risks whilst maintaining a balanced approach that safeguards biodiversity and the wider natural environment.”

They added: “Everyone has a role to play in reducing the risk of fires.

“We would encourage residents to take care during periods of hot, dry weather and to report concerns where appropriate.

“We will continue working with residents, partner agencies and local communities to support recovery and help reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future.”

Another issue for some of the residents living in Gorleston Road was sorting permanent fencing for their back gardens either through insurance or the council.

As of September 15, a row of temporary metal fences – which passers-by can see through – separated the damaged back gardens from Daisy Farm Park.

A council spokesperson said: “We understand that this continues to be a difficult time for residents affected by the fire on Gorleston Road and we remain committed to supporting the community as recovery continues.

“We have been engaging directly with affected households regarding damaged garden boundaries and are currently working through the next steps.

“Residents have been contacted by letter and through door-knocking visits, and our intention is to replace all fencing damaged by the fire.

“Work is due to begin during the week commencing 21 September 2026 to progress the installation of permanent fencing.

“In the meantime, temporary fencing remains in place and overnight security patrols have been extended to help residents feel safe and secure.”

On other forms of support being provided, they continued: “We are pleased that almost all of those most seriously affected are due to move into permanent homes soon.

“Council teams continue to support residents, including helping people access financial support and benefits.

“Officers have also supported applications to the government’s Crisis Resilience Fund for those eligible for assistance.

“We will continue working closely with residents and partner organisations to ensure those affected receive the support they need as recovery continues.”