Halesowen residents on Hillwood Road send petition to Dudley Council demanding clean-up of rat-infested area

Tenants at the back of properties on Hillwood Road have long called for action to tackle the poor state of an abandoned washing line area, only to be told by the council that there is no funding available to carry out the works.

Now with the support of local councillor Hilary Bills, residents have gathered a 35-strong petition to take to Dudley Council, demanding action.

Local campaigner Parmjit Sahota said: “I’m appalled to see the poor the state of the of washing line area that tenants have complained about on numerous occasions.

"I’m shocked to be told by tenants Liane Stevens and Daniel Howell that rats have been seen in the area also.

"Both have young children and expressed frustration at being told the area cannot be given a big tidy up.

“All council estates should have standard maintenance programmes to keep estates tidy, clean and make sure repairs are undertaken.

“The washing line to the rear of houses has great panoramic views of the Clent Hills and should be place that families can utilise for recreational use for quality family time, instead the neglect of it by the housing department is short changing local tenants of the basic housing standards.”

The petition is calling on the council to improve the area's condition and security, so children can use it safely for play.

Resident Liane Stevens said: “We have complained about the poor state and have been told there is no funding, we would like the washing area cleaned up and improved so it can be used by the tenants and their families for recreational purposes.”

Mr Sahota, cllr Bills and Ms Stevens will present the petition to Dudley Housing Department.

Alan Lunt, strategic director for place at Dudley Council, said: “We haven’t as yet received a petition regarding the use of a patch of land on Hillwood Road but we do intend to visit the site and meet with tenants to discuss options moving forward.”