Morning everyone,
A fresh wave of roadworks is hitting local routes over the next few days. Here's what you need to know before heading out.
🛑 Traffic & Roads: New Closures Hitting Great Barr
Queslett Road (June 26–30): Lane closure starting today for Openreach utility repairs. A temporary pedestrian walkway will be in place while works are active.
College Road (June 29–30): Lane closure between Aldridge Road and Warren Road for LED upgrades and light head replacements.
Hamstead Road (ongoing until July 17): Lane closure continues while Sandwell Council constructs a new pedestrian crossing.
⚠️ Scam Alert: Fake Parking Fines Targeting Locals
Sandwell Council has issued an urgent warning about fraudulent texts and emails circulating locally. Scammers are sending fake Penalty Charge Notices demanding immediate payment.
Do not click any links in unexpected messages and never share payment details. Always verify fines via official council websites. Report scam texts to Action Fraud.
🎒 The Weekend Lifesaver: Free Family Events
SING! West Midlands Vocal Workshop (Saturday June 27, 10am–4pm): Completely free workshop run by expert vocal leaders from the National Youth Choir. Open to young people in Years 5–8, no experience needed. Travel costs can also be covered.
📍 Walsall Arena and Arts Centre, Hawbush Road, WS3 1AG
Sandwell Armed Forces Day (Saturday June 27, 11am–4pm): Civic Square, Oldbury (B69 3AD). Parade at 10:45am, free climbing wall, live performances, market stalls and the Sandwell Youth Bus.
The Women Chainmakers' Festival (Saturday June 27, from 11am): Free family fun day at Mary Macarthur Gardens, Cradley Heath. Live music, kids activities and great community atmosphere.
Chance Glassworks Exhibition Launch (Saturday June 27, from 11am): Central Library, West Bromwich. Explore the local glassmaking legacy. Free Chance-inspired goody bags for early visitors while stocks last.
📱 Parents' Noticeboard: Free Online Safety Webinar
When: Wednesday July 1, 1:00pm
What: Free interactive webinar hosted by West Midlands Police and the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership for parents and carers.
Why: Practical session covering the most popular apps kids use, hidden online risks, digital fraud and how to talk to your kids about internet safety.
How to book: Register via the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership Eventbrite page.
🏛️ Local Museum Open Days
Oak House Museum (West Bromwich): Open Sundays 11am–2pm.
Haden Hill House Museum (Cradley Heath): Open Saturday and Sunday 2pm–6pm.
💬 Hit reply and let us know what you want more of — roadworks, safety alerts or weekend events. And if you run a local business or are organising a community event, get in touch.
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Drive safe,
Great Barr Insider