A blue Ford that had been abandoned on Markby Road in Handsworth for four years has finally been removed, much to the relief of local residents. The car, which had been rusting and collecting mould, was lifted after new ward councillors intervened.
Four-year eyesore on Markby Road
The vehicle was left on the street by a driver who simply walked away. Over time, it gathered dust and debris, with mould spreading throughout the interior as repeated attempts to trace the owner failed. The car also occupied a valuable parking space on a road where parking is already scarce.
Residents brought the issue to the attention of Shuranjeet Singh and Su Brookes during their election campaign for the Jewellery Quarter and Soho ward in the spring. After working with the police, the newly elected councillors managed to have the vehicle taken away.
Councillor's account of the removal
Coun Singh said: "During our election campaign residents were complaining about this car that never moves. It had been on the road for four years collecting dust, debris and even mould. It was horrible on a road that already suffers from a lack of parking."
He added: "So working with the police we identified that it was SORN, meaning it wasn’t taxed but couldn’t be left on the public highway. Then after much back and forth we managed to get it lifted."
Residents delighted as councillors pledge continued action
Coun Singh said: "Residents were delighted and we will continue fighting for the community our residents deserve."
