A clean-up operation has commenced on Gorleston Road in Warstock, Birmingham, a week after a fire destroyed homes and ravaged gardens in the area. Six homes on the street were burnt down during widespread fires across the West Midlands last Thursday.
Dozens of gardens backing onto council-owned Daisy Farm Park were also affected, leading to fears of burglaries due to damaged boundary fencing. Residents have reported individuals wandering onto scorched plots to take photographs.
Paul Coltman, who lost an outhouse, stated that female residents have complained about strangers taking photographs in their back gardens, causing worry. Resident Tina also expressed security concerns, saying, "Anybody can come in and break into your house in the middle of the night."
The city council has confirmed that operations will include securing its properties with fencing. Temporary fencing is expected to be erected on Thursday, and affected residents are receiving welfare support, emergency payments, and help with alternative accommodation. Dave Miller, operations manager at Atlas Works, is leading the clean-up, which involves crushers, tree surgeons, and various council teams.