Yob-target Subways could be filled in

Subways in Halesowen which are a magnet for yobs will be filled in under council plans.

Transport chief Councillor Angus Adams believes subways which run below the Earls Way island are "a dump" plagued by anti-social behaviour and daubed with unsightly graffiti. He claims residents are scared to use them and are instead trying to cross busy roads surrounding the roundabout where it is not safe.

Highways bosses have unveiled proposals to reshape the island and install pelican crossings as part of the scheme, to close the subways and improve safety. Residents can have their say on the plans, with consultation leaflets available from Halesowen Library in the Cornbow Centre until December 1 when the survey ends.

Councillor Adams is expecting a positive response and work could start in Easter next year.

He said: "I think we will have overwhelming support because the subways are a dump, there is a lot of graffiti there and a lot of anti-social behaviour.

"People are afraid to use them and therefore it's better to close them. Also at the moment it is costing us a lot of money to try and keep the subways clean and tidy, but it's virtually impossible to do."