A councillor urges action after vehicles get stuck in floodwaters in Hall Green
Birmingham: A councillor is pushing to close a ford in Hall Green after cars got stuck in floodwaters. This spot on Green Road crosses the River Cole and can get submerged really fast when it rains heavily.
Just recently, a vehicle was trapped in deep water during the floods that hit the Midlands. This incident happened on January 6, and it’s a reminder of a similar rescue from last year when a passer-by saved a mum and her young daughter from the same area.
Councillor Timothy Huxtable is worried that someone could get seriously hurt if nothing changes. He mentioned that the ford was blocked off this week, and Birmingham City Council is keeping an eye on things.
At a recent city council meeting, he again called for the ford’s closure to prevent future incidents. He pointed out that other fords in Hall Green, like Scribers Lane and Slade Lane, have already been closed for safety reasons.
Huxtable expressed his concern about the rising number of similar incidents at this ford, fearing that a serious injury could happen if the council doesn’t act soon.
Councillor Majid Mahmood, who oversees environment and transport, said that after heavy rain, the River Cole’s water levels have shot up by about 3 feet. The ford is currently blocked off, and he strongly advises drivers not to attempt crossing it, as even skilled drivers can be caught off-guard by the swift current and deep water.
Despite having warning signs and depth boards in place, the council will keep monitoring the situation. They have to balance the historical significance of this crossing with the potential dangers for those who might not know the risks when the River Cole floods.
