Residents living in Middle Meadow close to Horseley Road in Tipton have claimed that the ongoing West Midlands Metro construction works have caused damage to their gardens. Video footage shows large cracks in a number of gardens with the claim being that the construction of the Black Country line is the cause.
The residents have said that the cracks started to appear after heavy vibration work took place in connection with the tram works. It is claimed that 10 houses are impacted whilst it is also said that a block of flats have also been evacuated due to concerns with subsidence.
A spokesperson from Transport for West Midlands said: ““We have taken this matter very seriously and fully understand the frustration residents are experiencing. As soon as we were made aware of the issues, we began working with residents and specialist engineers to carry out an investigation to identify the potential cause.
“Some investigations are ongoing because the potential causes are complex given they include unknown historic ground conditions and developments over the years which predate the start of works for the metro. We have taken steps to mitigate the risks and we have supported residents throughout this process and will continue to do so as works progress with stabilising the embankment.”
I live in the region, from a historic point of view the area was industrial with mine shafts. The original line as got to date back 1830’s at the most.
If the houses where 1920’s or later and someone brought a house any mineshafts would have shown up on legal reports so owners would be aware of mineshafts and ground conditions.
It might be the vibrations triggered something in the old sites,