(l-r) Conservatives Leader Kemi Badenoch MP and Kingstanding Cllr Clifton Welch / Photograph supplied by Cllr Clifton Welch
Words byCllr Clifton Welch
This month I’d like to talk about one of the biggest issues I get asked about – potholes across Kingstanding.
After the cold winter that we had, I spent a little time inspecting local roads for potholes and reporting them for repair.
Sadly, Birmingham Labour have been trying to axe £20 million a year from the road repair budget at a time that the roads across Kingstanding – and Birmingham in general – have needed investment more than ever.
Across Kingstanding we are starting to see the damage in our local roads of a decade of bankrupt Birmingham Labour’s mismanagement of the Council and its finances. Many of these potholes – such as on Rivington Creescent, Epwell Road, and Warren Farm Road – are dangerous and require urgent attention.
I’d also like to take this opportunity to update you on the Kingstanding and Perry Common Libraries.
The good news is the campaign that local Conservatives launched to save these libraries was a success and Birmingham Labour backed down on their closure plan, and they are both going to remain open. However, the opening times will be reduced to just three days a week with no commitment to open on a Saturday.
There is also a risk that Birmingham Labour will use any reduced visitor numbers as an excuse to come back next year to close either or both libraries.
So, I can pledge Local Conservatives will continue to fight to protect both Libraries and in the longer-term fight for the return of full-time services.
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
Castle Vale and the armed forces are inextricably linked; if it wasn’t for the Spitfire where we would be. Built at RAF Castle Bromwich, the planes took off from the runways, which as I write is this very special piece where I am based on Castle Vale.
Everywhere you go on the estate you sense the history and importance of the impact this community had – most of the streets and roads are named after either people or places that are stepped in history. For example: Spitfire Way Lancaster Drive, Lofthouse Close.
There are even rumours of Spitfires being buried under Farnborough Fields.
So, it was right and proper that we did something special for VE day and raised a flag in Centre Park with the ‘Last Post’ playing. We have a war memorial which is located behind a fence in St Cuthberts church. I am wondering if this is the right place for this.
More importantly, a memorial that celebrates our veterans should be located somewhere also.
Listening to residents, I think the memorial should be located by the flagpole in Centre Park and we name it the ‘Memorial Park’ or ‘Veterans Corner’. I am not sure of the logistics of this, but it is worth exploring.
As Churchill said: “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.”
Paulette Hamilton MP in Westminster / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Words by Paulette Hamilton MP
I hope you and your family had a wonderful Easter break. As we celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we honour and will always remember the courage of those who defended our freedoms. Their sacrifice reminds us to stand united, building a future filled with hope, love, and peace.
This month, I’ve been working with the Friends of Conker Island in Kingstanding, calling for urgent repairs to the children’s play area.
Damaged bins, broken equipment, and hazardous surfaces are putting kids at risk. Our children deserve safe, well-maintained spaces to play, and I won’t stop until the council takes action.
On more positive news, we’ve secured a major win for community safety. After years of pressure and a campaign I led, Erdington High Street now has its own dedicated police team. This is a huge win for local businesses and residents who’ve faced antisocial behaviour for too long. I’ll keep pushing to make sure our streets feel safe for everyone.
(l-r) Inspector Christian Forder and Paulette Hamilton MP / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
In Parliament, I’m fighting for women’s health, demanding more research and funding for fibroids and reproductive diseases, conditions that have been ignored for decades.
Just recently, I hosted a parliamentary event with medical experts and campaigners to drive real change. No woman should suffer in silence because of a system that fails her.
From safer parks to better policing and healthcare, my focus remains on delivering for Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott. If you need help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Jack Brookes on the campaign trail in Birmingham, Erdington in 2022 / Photograph supplied by Jack Brookes
Words by Jack Brookes
First and most importantly, I hope all of you had a marvellous Victory in Europe Day; it is a time for all of us to reflect on what the brave fought and died for 80 years ago – throughout the world and peoples of all nationalities. They gave their tomorrow for our today.
In regards to the Commonwealth: “My thoughts go out to the innocents caught in the conflict between India and Pakistan at this incredibly difficult time.”
Now to political matters…
Reform recently gained: 2 Mayors, 1 MP, more than 600 councillors and 10 council majorities. England has displayed that it wants resolve, restoration and Reform. It must be remembered that this political change is greater than one person.
Reform’s local policies are clear. All wasteful government spending will be eradicated with the implementation of our own DOGE departments and the abolition of the unnecessary DEI and environmentalist jobs.
Taxpayers must get value for money otherwise more councils will go bankrupt like the Labour run Birmingham City Council. The Reform wave has momentum and we can win control of Birmingham City Council and save the city.
In other news, the Labour Government has perhaps negotiated the worst deal possible between the UK and India.
As stated on Reform’s Twitter/X page: “Two Tier Keir betrays British workers. It is now 20% cheaper to hire Indians than British people. He has cut taxes (National Insurance exemptions) for Indian workers and hiked them for British workers.”Thus, creating an unfair labour market.
Words byErdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives
Cllr Alden and police on Erdington High Street / Photograph supplied by Cllr Alden
Cllr Gareth Moore and I are delighted to confirm that Erdington High Street will now have its own dedicated Police team in addition to the existing Neighbourhood team.
This is something we have been campaigning for over the last few years and is a very welcome change which will mean more police on both the High Street and across the rest of Erdington.
It is also part of what we have been arguing is needed following success of operation fearless to maintain the progress made. Another part we continue campaigning for is for the front desk at Erdington Police Station to reopen.
(l-r) Ray Woods from ECBC, Selina Gooden from EWG, and Cllr Alden at Erdington Court Bowls Club / Photograph suppplied by EWG
Over the last month we have joined residents at a number of wonderful community events including the Good Friday Walk of Witness, Easter Egg hunt by Short Heath Fields Trust, 100th Birthday Walk for the Erdington Baths building by Erdington Walking Group (EWG), where regeneration work to convert it into an Enterprise Hub has started, and VE Day 80th remembrance service.
We’ve also been helping residents with various issues including, dumped rubbish on Johnson Road, litter bins emptied and getting the pedestrian crossing lights, on Station Road, repaired.
I am currently collecting a petition opposing a planning application to convert the old plumbing shop on Mason Road into a takeaway and against an application to convert four much needed bungalows into supported accommodation on Deakin Road.
Sgt Gary Grove from the Erdington High Street police team / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
Words by Sgt Gary Grove – Erdington High Street police team
For those of you who haven’t met me yet, I’m Sgt Gary Grove, your new High Street policing team Sergeant. It’s my pleasure to introduce myself and share how we’re working hard to keep our community safe.
With the Op Fearless team relocating to Southside, we’re focused on building on their success and making sure Erdington remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.
Their work led to more than 140 arrests, acting directly on concerns from residents and businesses. Fearless will return to Erdington from time to time to work with us, but now it’s our job to keep up momentum.
Sgt Grove talking to Erdington BID Street Wardens / Photograph supplied by Erdington BID
Since taking over at the start of April, we’ve had a strong start, making more than 17 arrests for various offences, executing warrants, and seizing illegal items. Our vehicle stops have led to the discovery of cash and drugs, while stop and searches have helped us remove dangerous weapons and knives from the streets.
This month, we’ll be out engaging with local businesses alongside partner agencies, ensuring the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is enforced by tackling street drinking and anti-social behaviour.
We know these issues matter to the community, so we’ll be taking strong action to stop them.
Sgt Grove, the High Street police team, and Erdington BID Street Wardens / Photograph supplied by Erdington BID
You’ll see us on patrol, listening to the community and acting on intelligence. We’re here to help and if you see us out and about, please do say hello.
I look forward to keeping you updated on our progress, successes, and future initiatives.
Young volunteers at Urban Devotion Birmingham / Photograph supplied by UDB
Words by Callum Hodson
At Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB), we are proud to celebrate two inspiring Year 9 girls from Erdington Academy who have recently achieved their Youth Volunteer Silver Award—recognising over 60 hours of dedicated community service and leadership.
Their journey with UDB began in Year 4, regularly attending our drop-in clubs and becoming familiar, friendly faces in our spaces. Over the years, we’ve seen them grow in confidence, character, creativity, and commitment.
They’ve taken part in residential trips, collaborative creative projects (including spray paint murals), and numerous skill-building activities—gaining various awards and certificates along the way.
Their volunteering has mainly taken place in the junior drop-in club they once attended as children. Now, they help lead creative play sessions, organise drama and storytelling, host craft activities, and serve food and drinks to the younger children—many of whom now look up to them as role models.
In addition to hands-on volunteering, they’ve completed specialist training in autism awareness, creative play, and safeguarding, all of which have supported their development as compassionate and capable leaders.
Within their friendship circles and local community, they are recognised as ambassadors of UDB, young people who give back with generosity and joy.
At UDB, we believe in walking with young people over time, providing space for them to belong, grow, and lead.
These two girls embody everything we stand for. Their passion, service, and personal growth are a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of consistent, community-rooted youth work.
The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Photograph by Phil Greig
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
One of the defining qualities of the Castle Vale community is its resilience. We’ve seen it time and again, whether during the Covid pandemic, when so many rallied to support their neighbours, or when local assets like the swimming pool and library were under threat.
The local charity Spitfire and dedicated volunteers stepped up, refusing to let these valuable community resources disappear.
We’re proud to have played our part in securing key community assets too. We secured a long-term lease on Castle Vale Stadium and have made significant investments to improve the facilities, including the addition of two 3G pitches.
We’re delighted to share that the Stadium’s finances are looking more sustainable than ever this year, helping to secure the future of sport in Castle Vale.
The Sanctuary, a hub for residents, young people, community, and faith groups, is also benefiting from investment from us. We’re creating more user-friendly, bookable spaces, giving the reception area a fresh look, and upgrading facilities to make it an even more welcoming and functional community space.
Community centres like The Sanctuary are vital, but they often require ongoing support to thrive, something we’re committed to providing.
If you’re looking for a venue for your business or social events, visit our websites to see what’s happening at The Stadium and The Sanctuary.
Together, we can keep all of Castle Vale’s assets viable and fit for the future.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Officer Afzal Hussain outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
Erdington Baths, a cherished community landmark, proudly marks its 100 year anniversary this month. This historic site has been a cornerstone of local sports, recreational, and social life for generations.
Many of you will know about Witton Lodge Community Association’s ambitious plans to refurbish and repurpose the facility as a Community & Enterprise facility, ensuring it remains a vibrant hub for future generations.
Since its closure, the building has deteriorated significantly and the first phase will involve undertaking essential repairs, repairing the roof, and ensuring the building’s structural integrity. This will be followed by transforming the main reception area and pool hall into co-working spaces, studio pods, events, and meeting rooms.
Earlier this month we were able to undertake strip-out works to enable further detailed structural surveys to be undertaken.
This builds on the creation of the pocket park which has improved the external frontage of the building, and we remain hopeful that we will be able to appoint a main contractor later in the year to commence the substantive works.
For those of you that venture to Witton Lakes, you will notice that the Makers Yard in the grounds of the Eco Hub is nearing completion, and residents will shortly be able to participate in range of new activities, including carpentry and horticulture taster courses.
Additionally, we have initiated improvements to the car park at Witton Lakes, to enhance accessibility and the visitor experience.
Against a tough backdrop, we remain committed to investing locally, celebrating all that is great about our area, and demonstrating the #PowerOfCommunity.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Erdington Walking Group at Witton Lakes / Photograph supplied by EWG
Words by Hema Chumber
The Erdington Walking Group (EWG) has become a staple for local residents looking to get active, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with others.
Founded by Selina Gooden in June 2019, the group started with just six members and has steadily grown as more people have discovered the benefits of walking together.
Usually running from January to November, the group offers regular walks on Mondays and Thursdays.
The Monday evening walks are from 6:30pm to 7:30pm, while Thursday walks are bi-weekly at the same time. These times are chosen specifically to accommodate those who may work or are parents, ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate.
Erdington Walking Group at Witton Lake / Photograph supplied by EWG
The walks take place in local parks and green spaces, including Witton Lakes, Rookery Park, Perry Common Meadows, and Sorrell Park. These venues offer a variety of scenic routes, accessible to people with different fitness levels – and participants are encouraged to enjoy nature and the outdoors, as well taking part in healthy physical activity.
But the group isn’t just about walking.
Over the years, EWG has organised a range of social events that complement the outdoor activity, from trips to see live jazz at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, to kayaking outings, art gallery visits, and even a Christmas meal for members.
Selina Gooden, founder of Erdington Walking Group, said: “I try to add at least one new experience each year for the group, to keep things interesting and varied, like a new social event or a new area to walk in.
“I’ve always enjoyed fitness since a young age, and I knew this because I was always playing sports.”
Erdington Walking Group taking part in the 10k Birmingham Wellness Walk charity fundraiser for Diabetes UK / Photograph supplied by EWG
The social aspect of the group has been key to its growth over the years, so far. Beyond the physical benefits, EWG provides a space for people to come together and form new friendships.
This inclusivity has meant people from all walks of life have been able to join in, whether they are looking to stay active or simply meet others in the community.
Selina added: “We also like to take part in things that are different to the usual walks, because this keeps everyone engaged and excited about coming along.
“Our walking group likes to connect with local services as well, so we can work together and help each other out.
“Looking after the Erdington community is key for us, and this will strengthen our relationships.”
Erdington Walking Group and partners outside Erdington Library / Photgraph supplied by EWG
EWG have also used their regular walking session to highlight local causes, such as supportring the campaigns to save Erdington and Perry Common libraries in the face of potential Council closure.
The group also hosted a special walk from Erdington Swimming Baths to the Erdington Court Bowls Club, to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the two local community hubs (check out our PICTURE GALLERY below).
Erdington Walking Group offers local residents a simple way to get active, enjoy nature, and build relationships – whilst also supporting the local causes and campaigns.
With its continued growth and its commitment to variety, the cherished group is set to remain a key part of Erdington’s local community for years to come.
Erdington Walking Group celebrate 100 year anniversaries of Erdington Swimming Baths and Erdington Court Bowls Club / Photographs supplied by EWG
Erdington Walking Group celebrate 100 year anniversaries of Erdington Swimming Baths and Erdington Court Bowls Club
For more information on Erdington Walking Group, or to get involved with the activities available, please email erdingtonwalkinggroup@hotmail.com
Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.
If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: hema@erdingtonlocal.com
