Metal thieves steal drain covers in Telford

At some time between 7 and 8 August 16 grated drain covers have been reported stolen within Hollinswood, Brookside and Priorslee area of Telford.

It is strongly suspected that scrap metal thieves have stolen the drain covers from the roadside. These covers would have been very heavy, so it's likely the thieves would have needed a vehicle to take them away.

Telford & Wrekin Council has incurred initial costs of £500 to make the gullies safe but expect to incur further costs of £2100 to permanently replace the missing gully grates and frames.

A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: "This is a clear safety concern for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, and I would welcome any reports from the public reporting any missing covers, and any information relating to who may be responsible. Telford & Wrekin County Highways are the victim, as are the public who pay their taxes to maintain the roads locally."

Anyone who can help the investigation especially scrap metal dealers, should contact West Mercia Police on the non-emergency number 101 quoting incident number 360S of 8 August.