West Midlands Tramline Construction Causes Garden Collapses, Evacuations

Residents in Tipton, West Midlands, are experiencing severe subsidence and garden collapses linked to the construction of the £245 million Brierley Hill Metro Extension tramline by the Midland Metro Alliance. Around 10 houses in Middle Meadow have been affected, with large cracks appearing in gardens and walls, prompting the evacuation of over 20 people from nearby flats due to unsafe foundations. Homeowners, including Ryan Kumar and his family, report significant damage, with some having invested tens of thousands of pounds in their gardens, now fearing further collapse. The subsidence has also caused emotional distress, especially for residents like Gurpreet Kumar, whose health is impacted by the stress. Transport for West Midlands and Midland Metro Alliance are working with residents and specialist engineers to investigate the complex causes, which include historic ground conditions predating the tram works, and have begun mitigation efforts to stabilize the area. The situation has sparked community frustration as residents worry about ongoing damage and uncertainty over the safety and future of their properties.