Residents of Littleworth Avenue in Woodsetton have been instructed to find alternative parking for five days due to a temporary road closure, as National Grid carries out essential electricity works on the cul-de-sac. The disruption, which runs from September 21 to September 25, has prompted concerns from local councillor Marco Longhi, who represents the Woodsetton ward.
Impact on Residents
Councillor Longhi highlighted the burden this places on residents, particularly those who are elderly, unwell, or rely on regular medical appointments. "Residents are being asked to find alternative parking for five days in a cul-de-sac," he said. "That is a significant burden, particularly for elderly or unwell residents, people attending regular medical appointments and those who need to keep work vehicles at home."
Some residents have also raised concerns about the practicalities of charging electric cars during the period and the uncertainty of leaving vehicles out of sight. The councillor has urged Dudley Council, as the Highway Authority, to intervene. "I have been pressing Dudley Council officers to become involved because the Council is the Highway Authority," he added. "It should not simply accept arrangements that place an unreasonable burden on residents without asking whether a better solution is possible."
National Grid's Response
Mr Longhi also criticised National Grid's approach, suggesting the company is trying to minimise costs. "Plating a trench is standard practice and to me National Grid are trying to do the job 'on the cheap' - irrespective of inconvenience caused," he said.
In response, a National Grid Electricity Distribution spokesperson defended the road closure, stating it is necessary for safety. "The road closure is necessary to ensure cable-laying to provide a new customer connection can be carried out safely, due to the narrowness of the avenue," the spokesperson said. "We understand the impact of this work will be frustrating and have been liaising closely with the highways authority to minimise this. We are aiming to complete the works as quickly as possible and apologise for any inconvenience they cause."
Council Response Pending
Dudley Council has not yet responded to requests for comment on the situation. The letter from National Grid to residents, which alerted them to the need for alternative parking, has been shared publicly. The temporary closure is expected to affect only the five-day period, but residents and the councillor are seeking reassurances that the works will be completed promptly and with minimal disruption.
