All Sandwell's metal drain covers to be replaced

All of Sandwell's 30,000 drain covers are set to be replaced with new plastic covers in a bid to crack down on metal thieves.

Under a scheme which could cost up to £2.2million, Sandwell Council will replace expensive metal covers and frames which are a magnet for metal thieves with new cheaper alternatives.

It comes as the authority is spending tens of thousands of pounds on replacing stolen covers. More than 40 have been stolen from parts of Tipton in the past fortnight alone.

It costs the council £400 a time to replace each stolen metal drain cover and frame.

Now the borough's neighbourhood services boss Councillor Derek Rowley said the council has found a company prepared to manufacture plastic drain covers which would be priced from £45 to £75.

And it is hoped that eventually all covers will be replaced.