Express & Star

Walsall allotments turned into graveyard for cars

A patch of green land, once used as community allotments, appears to have been turned into a car graveyard.

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This drone shot from J.A.B.S Event Hire shows abandoned cars on land in Walsall

The incredible aerial drone shot above shows dozens of abandoned cars nestling amid overgrown grass and weeds between homes in Tame Street East, West Bromwich Road and Hawes Road in Walsall.

About 30 cars have been abandoned on the site, leaving residents facing an eyesore and fearing for their safety.

Neighbours logged complaints with Walsall Council and West Midlands Police when the vehicles appeared this time last year – but nothing has been done.

WATCH: Drone footage shows abandoned cars

Now, the cars are surrounded by overgrown, tangled greenery and have been dubbed an “eyesore” by locals.

People are now urging the council and police to take action.

Walsall Council has said councillors are aware of the issue, and are looking into what can be done to resolve it.

'Not something you want by your house'

Retired teacher Ann Dutton has lived in her home backing onto the allotment for about 35 years.

The 66-year-old, who lives with her two rescue dogs, said: “They started bringing the cars in last year, around January or February time.

"First there were just a few on the side then it built up over five or six weeks.

There are about 30 cars buried in long grass in the former allotments

“A neighbour told me they were selling them from there, but they have never moved.

"Windows have been smashed though and bonnets gone, so people can clearly get in.

“My concern is if any of those cars had petrol in the tanks, if they did go up, there’s no easy access for emergency vehicles, so how will they put the fire out? It’s a major problem.

“It’s just not something you want dumped behind your house.”

Residents are worried about their safety

Stuart Smith, who lives in a flat overlooking the cars, called it an “eyesore”.

He said: “I’ve only lived here a year so I moved in when the cars were here, but it’s not nice. I can see them all outside my kitchen window.

“I’ve noticed one or two more too, so they’re increasing. One or two people have gained access and it looks like they’re stripping parts.

The land is privately owned

"As a resident, it’s a bit worrying. And for those whose homes directly back onto it, I imagine it’s quite a concern for security reasons.

“It’s just an eyesore. It’s not the most glamorous place to look at. And there are sometimes some unscrupulous people walking about. Who’s to say they won’t set one on fire?”

Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for community, leisure and culture at Walsall Council, said: “The land is privately-owned so we are investigating ownership and what can be done to resolve the issue.

"We are reviewing our records and have reached out to the complainant for further information.”