Birmingham City Council Admits Shortfall as Snow Looms Again
Birmingham City Council is facing scrutiny over its inability to adequately address icy road conditions following recent snowfall. Frustration among residents reached a peak when icy streets in Bartley Green remained untreated, prompting two teenagers to take action themselves.
Birmingham’s Road Safety Concerns Amid Icy Weather
The council’s transport chief, Councillor Majid Mahmood, acknowledged the challenges faced in treating every street in the city. He stated, “it’s not possible” to grit all roads, emphasizing the focus on priority routes. However, the local community’s concerns have been validated as some residents awoke to hazardous conditions on Friday.
Teenagers Take Initiative
In a commendable display of community spirit, two teenagers, a boy and a girl, used salt and sand from a nearby grit bin to treat the icy streets. They specifically addressed the risks on Hasbury Road, which had been labeled as “treacherous.” Their efforts received praise on social media, highlighting the importance of initiative in facing municipal challenges.
Weather Forecast and Council Plans
- The council is actively monitoring weather conditions as more snow is predicted in the West Midlands.
- Gritting crews have been deployed on Thursday night and Friday morning to handle priority areas.
- Non-priority streets, including some residential roads, may still be left untreated.
Councillor Mahmood expressed gratitude to the teenagers, encouraging community support in addressing road safety. He assured residents that while some streets may remain icy, the council is continuously reviewing and optimizing its gritting operations.
As Birmingham braces for additional snowfall, residents are reminded to exercise caution and look out for updates from local authorities regarding road conditions.
