Residents living near Birmingham Airport have long endured the disruptive noise of illegal street racing, with revving engines and speeding cars often heard late into the night. In response to widespread complaints, local authorities have decided to implement a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) targeting Damson Parkway, Elmdon, and Bickenhill Parkway, Marston Green, aiming to curb this anti-social activity.
Since news of the potential PSPO surfaced, residents have described the situation as a “nightmare,” with racers frequently racing past after 1 a.m. The intense noise of speeding vehicles reverberates through the area, disturbing households and impacting quality of life.
A local mother shared her experience: “The noise varies, but it’s usually late at night. We often hear loud exhausts revving.” Other residents, especially those with natural sound barriers like trees or homes set away from the road, have noticed the noise less, but the issue remains unmistakably disruptive.
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One Burgess Croft resident simply stated, “It’s awful and definitely needs attention.” Another from Kendal Grove described hearing “pops and bangs” from cars late at night and noted speeds far exceeding the 40mph limit, sometimes reaching 60 or 70mph. “I’m a good sleeper, but even I hear it when trying to rest. It’s great to see something being done,” they commented.
Council analysis, based on police call data over three years, highlighted that Damson Parkway and Bickenhill Parkway are disproportionately affected by this nuisance. The anti-social behaviour includes excessive noise, reckless driving, and intimidation of pedestrians.
At a council meeting on March 18, Councillor Laura McCarthy, Elmdon’s ward representative, expressed strong support: “This has been overdue and much needed.” Councillor Ben Groom echoed this sentiment, calling the PSPO “a good idea,” while Councillor Wazma Qais underscored the importance of evidence-based interventions driven by police reports.
The PSPO will be in effect for three years and prohibits the identified street racing activities. Enforcement will begin with warnings for first-time breaches, escalating to £100 fixed penalty notices for repeat offences. Persistent non-compliance could lead to prosecution with fines of up to £2,500.
With these measures now in place, local residents are hopeful for quieter nights and safer roads in their community.