Councillor Rose Martin has raised concerns about overgrown grass across Pelsall, Aldridge and Brownhills in Walsall, warning that dry conditions are increasing the risk of wildfires. Several residents have contacted the councillor, who fears the unkept areas will act as a 'tinder box' in the event of a fire.
Residents report flames over ten metres high
One local told Councillor Martin that a recent fire on the North Common had flames which were 'over ten 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 and claimed the grass had reached two metres in height.
Another resident on the Windrush estate said a green space near their home had been left to grow wild this year but had become a 'significant fire hazard'. Councillor Martin called on the council to review areas of long grass near properties and 'get it cut'.
Peat beneath Pelsall common adds to wildfire danger
The Pelsall councillor said: “I’ve had a lot of people really concerned about wildfires. The thing that concerns me is that parts of the common in Pelsall have peat underneath them. If that sets light, we are in trouble.
“Fortunately, the common has been mowed, but there are other parts close to houses that haven’t. I feel I’m making a reasonable statement to the council, if there’s any long grass near properties, get it cut. This will act as a barrier if some idiot drops a cigarette.”
Councillor Martin also said there should be a number for residents to tell the council of areas they think are at higher risk. She added: “Residents would feel safer if the council were being proactive in looking at areas that could ignite in fire close to properties.”
Council urged to act on private land as well
Councillor Martin emphasised that if the land is private, the council should be able to tell the landowner to cut the grass or do the work and send them a bill. Walsall Council was approached for a statement.
