A Walsall councillor has expressed serious concerns regarding the presence of overgrown grass in Pelsall, Aldridge, and Brownhills, highlighting the increased wildfire risk due to the current dry conditions.
Councillor Rose Martin has been contacted by several residents alarmed that these unmaintained areas could serve as a ‘tinder box’ in the event of a fire. One resident recounted a recent blaze on North Common, describing flames that soared more than ten metres high, with winds threatening to spread the fire across the canal towards Nest Common.
The same resident noted that much of this land has been designated for rewilding, resulting in grass that has grown as tall as two metres. Another individual from the Windrush estate shared concerns that a nearby green space left to grow wild this year has now become a “significant fire hazard.”
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Councillor Martin has called on the council to review and trim areas of long grass located near residential properties. She stated, “I’ve received many concerns about wildfires, particularly because parts of the common in Pelsall have peat underneath. If that ignites, the consequences could be severe.”
She added, “While the common has been mowed in some places, other areas close to homes have not. I believe it is reasonable to ask the council to ensure any long grass near houses gets cut. This could act as a barrier to prevent fires started by careless actions, such as dropping a cigarette.”
Councillor Martin further urged that if the land is privately owned, the council should instruct the landowner to maintain it or undertake the task themselves and subsequently charge the owner. She also suggested establishing a dedicated contact number for residents to report areas they believe are at increased risk.
“Residents would feel more secure if the council took a proactive role in assessing and managing areas vulnerable to fire near homes,” she said.
Walsall Council has been approached for a comment on the matter.