Safety warning as grids stolen

RESIDENTS are asked to be vigilant following a spate of grid thefts across the borough.
Around 120 highway drain covers have been stolen in the past three weeks from various locations including Diggle, Dobcross, Oldham and Failsworth.

Oldham Council believes the thieves are cashing in on the price of scrap metal.

Councillor John McCann said: “The grid covers that are being stolen are the older cast iron ones which suggests the thefts are carried out by irresponsible people looking to make a quick buck.

“We will not hesitate to prosecute anyone caught doing this.

“What is particularly galling is that these thefts waste taxpayers’ money spent on having to replace the ductile iron grids — and they also potentially put people in danger.

“Removing the grids creates a safety hazard as some of these covers will protect fairly deep holes.”

Due to the number of thefts, the council says it may take time to replace the grids and ask for the public’s patience.

Anyone who notices a grid cover missing can contact the Highways Maintenance team, which will install a temporary measure, on 0161-770 4325.

Suspicious behaviour in relation to people removing grid covers can be reported to police on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111.