Council asks public not to speculate over fire

People have been urged not to speculate over the cause of a fire which destroyed a row of houses last month.

Multiple wildfires broke out across the West Midlands on the hottest day of the year, with Gorleston Road, Warstock, among the affected areas. The fire devastated several back gardens, while six homes ravaged by the blaze remain fenced off.

Following the events of 13 August, Birmingham City Council said it was committed to mitigating future fire risks while also "safeguarding biodiversity and the wider natural environment".

Residents have spoken about the scenes they witnessed and the deep shock that followed, with one woman saying it was a "miracle" they still had a house.

Paul Smith, 70, said flames tore through back garden fences "like an express line", adding that he had lost family pets in the blaze.

He also claimed that nearby Daisy Farm Park had suffered multiple smaller fires before last month's blaze and called for greater action to manage the long grass in the park.

A council spokesperson said: "We understand why residents are asking questions about how the fire started and whether anything could have prevented it.

"While dry vegetation can contribute to the spread of fires, it is important not to speculate on the cause of this incident.

"The prolonged hot and dry conditions experienced this summer have increased fire risks across the country and we continue to review what more can be done across our services to adapt to these challenges."

They said the council will undertake a review of grounds maintenance operations to identify opportunities for improvement and, where appropriate, make changes to it's management approach.

"The council is committed to mitigating future fire risks whilst maintaining a balanced approach that safeguards biodiversity and the wider natural environment."

It added: "Everyone has a role to play in reducing the risk of fires.

"We would encourage residents to take care during periods of hot, dry weather and to report concerns where appropriate.

As of 15 September, temporary metal fencing has been erected to separate the damaged back gardens from Daisy Farm Park.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by West Midlands Fire Service.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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