Roads in South Birmingham have been left underwater following a combination of melting snow and heavy rainfall, causing significant disruption and raising serious concerns about local infrastructure.
Streets Submerged and Road Closure
The flooding, which hit on Monday, 13 January 2026, rendered several streets in the Frankley area completely impassable. The focal point of the incident was Boleyn Road, which had to be shut in both directions after a car was pictured semi-submerged in floodwater.
‘A Constant Source of Misery’
Local councillors have expressed deep frustration, highlighting that this is a recurring problem. Councillor Simon Morrall stated, "This is the second time Boleyn Road has flooded in less than two months." He recounted a similar incident in November where a fire engine was needed to rescue a stranded car, despite warnings.
"Highways eventually had to completely block the road off, which didn't stop people moving the barriers and another car got stuck," Morrall added. He also revealed that although drains were cleaned the day after the November flood, the work "appears to have done very little" and the system has blocked again.
Councillor Carmel Corrigan described the flooding as a "constant source of misery" for local residents. She provided an update on planned works, indicating that contractor Kier and the council would access a sewer to improve drainage, with a road closure expected for a week in February to complete the final works.
Planning Approval Under Fire
Councillor Morrall directed strong criticism at Birmingham City Council's planning decisions, claiming they approved a housing development for the area "without any consideration for the flood plain." The council has been contacted for a comment on the situation.
Meanwhile, in a related move, Wharf Road in Kings Norton was closed on the same Monday for pre-emptive flood prevention work.
