Streets in the West Midlands are being used as a dumping ground for untaxed and abandoned vehicles, according to local authorities. Sandwell Council has identified a growing problem with these cars in the Smethwick area, which is causing significant traffic disruption for local businesses.
Targeted Operation Yields Results
In response to ongoing concerns about vehicles being left on public roads and in business areas, Sandwell Council joined forces with West Midlands Police for a targeted operation on November 6. Officers focused their efforts on four specific streets: Heath Street, Cranford Street, Fawdry Street and Alma Street.
The council confirmed that during this enforcement action, 23 vehicles were subject to enforcement under DVLA Devolved Partner Powers. Of these, seven vehicles were removed from the highway entirely, clearing the streets of the most problematic abandoned cars.
Fines and Clean-Up Operation
The crackdown resulted in substantial penalties for offenders. Authorities issued 18 penalty charge notices and imposed fines totalling £1,600. In addition to the enforcement action, the council's partners at Serco conducted a thorough clean of Heath Street, addressing the environmental impact left by the abandoned vehicles.
Councillor Suzanne Hartwell, Sandwell Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community, praised the joint effort. "This operation is a great example of partnership working in action," she stated. "Abandoned and untaxed vehicles not only cause disruption but also create an eyesore and safety hazard for residents and businesses."
"By working together, we're making sure our streets are safer, cleaner and better maintained," Hartwell added, emphasising the council's commitment to tackling the issue of abandoned vehicles in the region.