Month: May 2026

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NEWS: Erdington High Street Community Market on Saturday 30 May – 10am to 4pm – with free children’s games and activities

Erdington High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ed King

Words by Ed King

Erdington High Street Community Market returns to the Town Centre on Saturday 30 May – celebrating its fourth event, taking place on the last Saturday of every month.

Held on the pedestrianised area in between Wilton Indoor Market and B&M Superstore, the event will run from 10am to 4pm – with a range of stalls selling arts, crafts, toys, clothes, and homemade treats from local traders and crafters.

There will also be a variety of free children’s fun and games at the Erdington Market, including a bouncy castle, face painting, temporary face tattoos, and two arts and crafts stands – with one even offering a peaceful time out for adults, from local community group Arts All Over the Place.

Erdington High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ilona Zielinska

This month, The Might Jamma will also be at the Erdington Community Market – bringing some Steepan summer vibes to the High Street throughout the event. Click here to check out some of Jamma’s music online.

The LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY hub will also be offering some free soft drinks and water bottles, whilst talking to those attending about some exciting new events and activities coming to Erdington High Street later this year.

Completely free to attend, there is no charge to attend the Erdington High Steet Community Market or for any of the activities on offer.

Click here to join the Erdington High Street Community Market events page and be the first to get updates and special offers for each event.

The Community Markets are organised by the Erdington Business Improvement District (BID), as part of their ongoing LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY campaign – with support from Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority through the Shared Prosperity Fund and Mayor’s Market Fund.

Erdington High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ed King

A spokesperson for Erdington BID told: “We launched the Erdington High Street Community Markets in February this year, and the events have been absolutely fantastic – with some really unique and creative stall holders, all from in and around Erdington.

“They are a lot of fun, for both adults and children, and a really wonderful way of the Erdington community to come together and enjoy and afternoon on the High Street.”

Erdington High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ed King

They added: “This month, in May, we’ve got a few more stall coming along – as the Community Market is picking up interest from new traders and people looking to try their hand at a pop up stall.

“The market is growing, and we would love to welcome more people down to the High Street to have a browse and a bite to eat and join us in celebrating our fantastic Erdington community. See you on the High Street this Saturday [30 May].”

Erdingotn High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ed King

Taking place on the last Saturday on each month, the Erdington High Street Community Markets launched in February 2026 and has seen hundreds of people enjoy an afternoon in Erdington Town Centre.

Regular stall holders are joined each month by new traders, selling unique gifts, local crafts, original artwork, and mouthwatering cakes, desserts, and home recipes that you won’t find anywhere else.

Erdington High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ed King

Check out our picture gallery below, showing some of the highlights from previous Erdington High Street Community Markets.

The Erdington High Street Community Markets are run as part of the Erdington BID’s LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY campaign, to welcome local people and visitors into Erdington Town Centre.

LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY presented a series of community events across 2025, including three ‘Summer Fun Days’ from June to August and three ‘Winter Warmer’ events throughout December.

Erdington High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ilona Zielinska

The LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY campaign is also building a group of local volunteers, to help support events and work on other activities that support Erdington Town Centre – such as community litter picks, gardening, and outreach work with local care homes and residential centre.

Anyone interested in volunteering through the LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY campaign, or information about the wider events and activities being delivered though the Erdington BID, should email: erdingtonhighstreet@hotmail.co.uk

PICTURE GALLERY: Erdington High Street Community Markets / Photographs by Ilona Zielinska and Ed King

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Helping mum and baby thrive – infant mortality project succeeding

Spurgeons showcase event and community baby shower at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

A showcase event celebrating the early impact of the North Locality Infant Mortality project was held last Thursday (21 May).

Just seven months into its ambitious 18-month journey, the project is already proving to be a lifeline for expectant mothers across Erdington.

Supporting Mums

Funded by the Fairer Future’s Fund and overseen by Witton Lodge Community Association, the initiative is being delivered by Spurgeons. It provides holistic support for the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of mothers during the most transformative chapter of their lives.

To celebrate its early success, Spurgeons hosted a vibrant showcase event and community baby shower at its base at Lakeside Children’s Centre. Local partners including Birmingham and Solihull NHS Trust Integrated Care Board (ICB) alongside midwives, breastfeeding support groups and pregnancy specialists were in attendance.

Spurgeons showcase event and community baby shower at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Formal presentations were given by Jonathan Wiggin, Head of Services at Spurgeons, Phil Johns, Chief Strategy Officer at ICB and Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnerships at Witton Lodge Community Association.

Infant Mortality Rates

“Infant mortality was identified as a key priority for the North Locality through the co-production process that Witton Lodge Community Association led last year,” said Waheed.

“Working with partners and local communities, we developed a targeted project to support high-risk pregnant women in the three Erdington wards with the highest infant mortality rates.

Waheed Saleem talking at Spurgeons showcase event and community baby shower at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by WLCA

“The project provides one-to-one support through pregnancy support workers, helping women to reduce key risks during pregnancy. This includes encouraging early attendance at appointments, supporting women to stop smoking, helping with weight management, and providing practical financial support for essential everyday items that can make a real difference for new mothers and their babies.

“We are pleased to be working with Spurgeons to deliver this important project. As the Family Hub in Erdington, Spurgeons is well placed to continue supporting mothers and families beyond pregnancy, offering a wide range of services for children, young people and families up to the age of 19.

“The project has been supported by MMP GP Partnerships, midwives, health visitors and community groups. This joined-up approach is vital if we are to tackle infant mortality, reduce inequalities and ensure families receive the right support at the right time.”

Impressive Early Impact

The project is achieving a good level of success with its impact and reach already returning impressive numbers, such as:

  • 45 individuals received Health & Wellbeing Support (including breastfeeding & morning sickness advice)
  • 57 community sessions delivered including baby & antenatal groups and baby showers
  • 72 individuals received Benefits & Welfare Support including advice around baby banks, food bank referrals and supplying baby essentials
  • 25 individuals supported by the Safer Sleep Scheme
  • 61 women now feeling more confident with their parenting skills
  • 37 travel vouchers issued to support attendance to antenatal appointments
  • 60 women received postnatal support to help reduce feelings of isolation and boost confidence
  • 78 women have reduced stress and anxiety following support from Pregnancy Support Workers

Natalie Haymes, Community Liaison Lead and Pregnancy Support Manager for Spurgeons in Erdington, said: “By fostering a network of care that addresses everything from emotional resilience to physical health, we are not just supporting individuals we are building a fairer, healthier future for the next generation of our community.”

To find out more about the great work being delivered by Spurgeons in the local community please visit their website HERE.

For details on support activities being delivered at the Witton Lakes Eco Hub, click HERE.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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LOCAL FEATURE: Petition launched by Raise the Colours to see statue of King Charles I replace flags at Kingstanding Circle

Image taken from online peition at change.org

Words by Josh Neicho

Self-professed patriotic campaigners from Kingstanding have started an online petition to see a commemorative statue of King Charles I officially erected at Kingstanding Circle, as a replacement for the unauthorised flag displays.

Legend has it Charles I reviewed his troops while standing on a neolithic barrow north of present-day Kingstanding Circle, in the run up to the first major clash of the Civil War, the Battle of Edgehill.

Artist’s impression of King Charles I commanding his forces at the Battle of Naseby in 1645 / Image taken from Adobe Stock ImagesSean Keatley of Raise the Colours Kingstanding, who have been responsible for the proliferation of Union Flags and St George’s Cross flags around the ward, says the story of the troop review “adds character to our community” and “connects us to our country’s rich historical tapestry”.

Charles I statue and Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square / Photohraph taken from Adobe Stock Images

Keatley says that growing up locally, he often wondered why there was no monument to King Charles, given the name of the area, and argues Kingstanding deserves the equivalent of Brownhills’ 40 foot Tin Man or Spitfire Island in Castle Vale. His vision is of a statue similar of Charles I on horseback in scale and style to the one in the centre of London, at the top of Whitehall.

Now he is looking to amass support for the statue and has told media if approval is given to the monument the sea of St George’s Cross and Union flags on the Circle could “come down permanently”. Raise the Colours’ Chris Davis adds that “having something a lot more permanent would be a lot more fulfilling”.

For several months, the Kingstanding ‘flaggers’ have played cat and mouse with Council workers and anti-flagging activists over the display around Kingstanding Circle – with local residents debating if the campaign represents patriotism or jingoistic aggression.

Some even call the campaign racist in its intent, echoing the historic concerns over cultural division in Kingstanding – where the British National Party candidate Sharon Ebanks was nearly elected as local councillor in 2006.

(L-R) Sean Keatley, Chris Davis from Raise the Colours Kingstanding by Kingstanding Circle / Image supplied by Sean Keatley

But Keatley insists things have moved on in the last twenty years and believes “we should be able to celebrate our history and our culture.”

“If we aren’t doing anything to celebrate it, it’s being taken away,” he adds.

Raise the Colours Kingstanding is optimistic about the statue, after receiving support from several candidates in the recent local elections. They now hope to progress the idea with the ward’s new Reform councillors, including the Birmingham group’s newly appointed leader, Jex Parkin.

Reform UK Deputy Leader, Richard Tice, who visited during the local elections campaign, “is in full support of our movement and what we stand for”, Keatley adds, and he’s waiting to see if Tice “will help us make it happen”.

Keatley suggests funding could come from the £20 million awarded to Kingstanding under the Government’s Pride in Place scheme.

Announced by the Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton in September last year, after funds were released by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), Pride in Place will see £20m come into Kingstanding over the next decade – with £2m allocated for projects annually.

Following an open application process, Birmingham Settlement boss Martin Holcombe has been appointed Chair of the Pride in Place Board that will oversee spending – with additional members being made up from local stakeholders and residents.

Hamilton says she is proud to have secured the funding and decisions on spending must be community-led. “This funding should reflect the priorities of local residents, whether that is investing in youth services, safe and welcoming spaces for older people, improving parks and public spaces, or indeed proposals such as a statue of King Charles I,” she confirmed.

Charles I (1600-1649) on engraving from the 1800s – as published in London by L.Tallis / Image taken from Adobe Stock Images

But historians warn that claims about Charles I’s presence at Kingstanding should be treated with due scepticism.

Professor Andrew Hopper, a Civil War specialist who grew up in Solihull, says he knew the story years ago, “but only from ‘tradition’ and oral sources”. Professor Hopper adds that enthusiasm for a Charles I statue is ironic, given Birmingham’s noted Parliamentarian sympathies in the Civil War and the sack of the city by Prince Rupert – an incident recalled by several Erdington Local readers.

After reading about Keatley’s petition on Erdington Local’s social media, James Wells from Erdington Lunar Society posted: “Let’s commemorate someone who attempted to take our democratic rights away, caused a civil war that divided the country and whose son viciously attacked Birmingham who supported the parliamentary side. I don’t think so.”

Artist’s impression of King Charles I commanding his forces at the Battle of Naseby in 1645 / Image taken from Adobe Stock Images

Doyen of Birmingham history Carl Chinn says a more prosaic explanation is that the name comes from a ‘standing’ – a hunter’s station – which Chinn thinks is plausible given the area’s proximity to Sutton, a royal chase.

Meanwhile researcher Ronald E. Crook once documented the word ‘king’ was common in the names of local fields before the Civil War and that there are stories linked to the Kingstanding barrow about a medieval Danish king’s exploits too.

To see the online petition visit www.change.org/p/install-a-statue-of-king-charles-i-on-kingstanding-circle

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Inspirational Chivenor Teaching Assistant runs marathon in aid of Motor Neurone Disease research

Claire Almond, Teaching Assistant at Chivenor Primary School, at the Rob Burrows Leeds Marathon 2026 / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Words and photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Usually found guiding the youngest learners at Chivenor Primary School, teaching assistant Claire Almond demonstrated a powerful lesson in perseverance by completing a half marathon on Sunday, 10 May.

Almond tackled the gruelling 21-kilometre Leeds Marathon course to raise vital funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research, a cause close to her heart.

The challenging route began and ended at Headingley Stadium, the hallowed home ground of the late rugby league legend Rob Burrow. For Almond, a dedicated women’s rugby player, Burrow’s courageous battle with the neurodegenerative condition served as a profound inspiration.

Runners running in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon 2023 / Photograph from Adobe Stock Images

After witnessing the impact of the disease on the sporting community, she felt compelled to trade her rugby cleats for running shoes to make a difference.

Almond’s journey to the finish line, which she completed in an impressive two hours and twenty minutes, is particularly remarkable given her recent start in the sport.

Having only begun running last summer through the NHS ‘Couch to 5K’ program, the transition to a half marathon represented a monumental leap in distance and endurance. “I never even thought I’d be able to run 5 kilometres, let alone 21K,” Almond shared, reflecting on her rapid progression from novice jogger to long-distance fundraiser.

Her grit and determination have resonated throughout her community.

The children and staff at Chivenor Primary School are incredibly proud of Claire’s fantastic achievement.

By pushing her physical limits, she has not only raised essential funds for MND research but also provided an inspiring example of dedication for her students.

For advice from the NHS about Motor Neurone Disease visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/motor-neurone-disease

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of Griffin Schools Trust, for more information visit www.griffinschoolstrust.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom. If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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NEWS: Residents at Phoenix Court on Castle Vale call for extra security after tenant charged with firearm and weapon offences

Outside of Phoenix Court, showing secured entrance on Yatesbury Avenue (image taken from Google Maps)

Words by Ed King

Residents at Phoenix Court on Yatesbury Avenue, Castle Vale, have started a petition calling for extra security in their building – following concerns regarding a tenant who has been charged with firearm and weapon related offences, and who is currently registered as living in the over 55’s housing complex.

The tenant in question is being processed through the Birmingham courts for a list of offences relating to threatening behaviour, firearms and weapons.

According to the court listing, they are facing the following charges: threat to damage / destroy property, [possession of] a firearm without a certificate, [possession of] an offensive weapon in [a] private place.

It is further believed that threats to endanger life were made by the tenant towards at least one staff member at Phoenix Court.

Sign outside Birmingham Crown Court (Photograph by Ed King)

As part of their initial bail conditions, the tenant facing the charges was reportedly blocked from entering municipal areas at Phoenix Court or entering the building unsupervised.

However, according to other residents at Phoenix Court the problem tenant has been tailgating people entering the housing complex and bypassing the front door security locks.

After raising concerns over safety at a recent meeting with the estate management team, worried residents are now circulating a petition asking The Pioneer Group, who own and operate Phoenix Court, to “arrange for a security person in the front entrance… until [the tenant is] incarcerated or evicted from [their] flat.”

Police tape cordoning off road (photograph by Ed King)

The tenant identified in the petition has previously been at the centre of various disturbances, including a dramatic armed police response in June 2022 after it was believed they then too had a firearm – where other Phoenix Court residents were held under “siege” whilst the police cordoned off the housing complex and made their arrest.

One resident told Castle Vale Local: “After that siege, four years ago, [they] shouldn’t have been allowed back in here – a block full of vulnerable people.”

They added: “You don’t know what [they] can be capable of, [they] threatened to blow [a staff member] in [their] car.”

British armed police officer (Photograph taken from Adobe Stock Images)

Owned and managed by The Pioneer Group, Castle Vale’s largest social Housing landlord, Phoenix Court houses around 60 elderly residents – encouraging independent living and community, within a supported accommodation setting.

The Route2Wellbeing website describes Phoenix Court as “a personalised approach supporting the wellbeing of older people by promoting independence through the development of friendships, reducing isolation and offering a wide range of activities and opportunities that promote wellbeing and increased quality of life.”

After receiving the petition from Phoenix Court residents, on Friday 22 May a spokesperson for The Pioneer Group told Castle Vale Local: “We are aware of an ongoing issue involving a tenant at Phoenix Court.

“We are working closely with tenants to ensure the building remains safe and are taking the appropriate course of action to address the situation.”

They added: “As an added reassurance, we have arranged for a security guard to be present during the evenings over [the Bank Holiday] weekend. We also have CCTV in place both internally and externally, with our teams actively monitoring and reporting any sightings.

“We have been in contact with the police, who have reassured us that they will carry out additional internal patrols.”

Residents confirmed a security guard was present over the Bank Holiday Weekend, but at the time of writing has not returned to the front entrance of Phoenix Court.

Castle Vale Local has further reached out to The Pioneer Group about potential cost implications over additional security and the housing provider’s eviction policies and process.

The tenant facing charges is scheduled to reappear in court in June.

Castle Vale Local will continue to follow the story.

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NEWS: Police appeal for witnesses after fatal Bank Holiday Sunday car crash on Chester Road

Chester Road Train Station (Image taken from Google Maps)

Words by Ed King

West Midlands Police (WMP) are appealing for information from any witnesses, following a fatal crash between two cars by Chester Road train station on Bank Holiday Sunday (24 May).

In a statement issued by WMP, the force told: “It’s believed a grey Kia Sportage had collided with a wall and a Honda Jazz” on the Chester Road.

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 9:20pm where officers confirmed the driver of the Kia Sportage had tragically lost his life in the collision, whilst the passenger in that vehicle was taken to hospital “as a precaution”.

A third man, the driver the Honda Jazz, was also taken to hospital with injuries that WMP stated “aren’t believed to be life threatening”.

Police tape cordoning off road (photograph by Ed King)

Officers investigating the road traffic accident are asking anyone who was in the area at the time to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU), and to check CCTV, Ring doorbells, or dash cam footage for anything that may help with their enquires.

An appeal issued by WMP confirmed: “We’re appealing for witnesses and footage after a fatal collision in Erdington.

“We were called to Chester Road, near Chester Road Train Station, at around 9.20pm [on 24 May] to reports of a collision.

“It’s believed a grey Kia Sportage had collided with a wall and a Honda Jazz.

“The driver of the Kia, a man aged 33, was tragically confirmed dead at the scene.

“His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.”

Chester Road Train Station (Image taken from Google Maps)

They added: “Our Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) is keen to hear from anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage from around the area, and anyone who saw the crash should get in touch with us.

“You can call 101 or speak to us via Live Chat on our website, or email SCIU directly at sciu@westmidlands.police.uk”

After the accident, reports on social media claim the Chester Road was closed from the interchange with Boldmere Road right up to the four way traffic lights by Sutton New Road – with the police, ambulance, and fire service all at the scene.

Messages of condolences flooded the internet for the young man who lost his life, with those who were at the “awful scene” expressing concern for anyone affected.

It is reported trains were blocked for stopping at the Chester Road station whilst initial investigations took place, but at the time of writing normal service has been resumed.

For more on the police and crime in Erdington visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/area/your-area/west-midlands/birmingham/erdington

You can also follow the Erdington police team on Twitter www.x.com/ErdingtonWMP

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating Linda and those who hold our communities together

(L-R) WLCA Chair Linda Hines MBE and WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussaon by sponsored Bulls in the City statue

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Perry Common Community Hall was recently filled with warmth, laughter, and togetherness to mark Linda Hine’s 75th birthday. Many of us know that Linda Hines MBE (to give her full title), as Chair, has been the heart and backbone of Witton Lodge Community Association for over three decades.

Linda is among those committed people who work tirelessly to improve their neighbourhoods and bring communities together.

Linda’s remarkable journey began with her standing with neighbours to keep their community together during the demolition and redevelopment of their homes; and helping to establish Witton Lodge Community Association. It is powerful reminder of what is possible when local people unite behind a shared purpose.

Across our communities, there are others like Linda: residents, volunteers, staff and local leaders who give their time and care to support others. They organise activities, listen, provide services, and create spaces where people feel safe, valued, and connected.

In an increasingly fractured world, where pressures on communities continue to grow, this work has never been more important. These everyday acts of leadership and solidarity build trust, strengthen relationships, and keep our neighbourhoods and communities connected and resilient.

Their impact can be seen in thriving community spaces, opportunities for young people, and the sense of belonging that brings people together.

(L-R) Framed picture of WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain and WLCA Chair Linda Hines MBE at gala event

As we celebrate Linda’s contribution, we also salute those who are actively playing their part. If you’re inspired to make a difference, now is the time to get involved.

Whether it’s volunteering your time, supporting a local initiative, or simply checking in on a neighbour, every action counts in building stronger communities.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

Click on the image below to read Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news, first published in the May to June ’26 Erdington Local newspaper.  

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Why do we take young people on residentials? The WHY of Youth Work

Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) on residential with young people / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Steph Porter, Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

Let me take you back to your first school residential… mounting nerves about a night away from your mom, brewing excitement about the quantity of Haribo you’re going to eat at 11pm and the all-nighter with your dorm room buddies, anticipation of the ‘leap of faith’ which your older brother told you is a death wish, all whilst wondering if you have as much pocket money as your friend, Michael, for the gift shop, where you hope to buy a massive pencil with the camp logo on.

I’ve been running residentials for the last four years and I must tell you, they haven’t changed much! At UDB, it is a crucial part of our work in the community to give our children and young people the opportunity to go away.

As a youth worker, I love connecting with young people outside of their normal contexts because they often let their guards down in a different way to a normal drop-in or mentoring session.

Giving them a spare toothbrush when they forget theirs (frequent), needing a pep-talk pre-kayaking, finding them something different to eat when they don’t like the dinner (also frequent) are all relational luxuries when you’re away together.

We love doing life with the people we work with, and residentials are a wonderful display of this.

For more about UDB scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Building affordable homes across Erdington and Minworth

Representaives from The Pioneer Group and Seddon at Burcote Road development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group

As a community-focussed organisation, Castle Vale will always be at the heart of everything we do. Our roots are here, and with the vast majority of our homes based on the Vale, our commitment to both our tenants and local residents remains as strong as ever.

You may have seen that we’re beginning work on two new housing developments nearby, in Erdington and Minworth.

While they sit just a five-minute drive from Castle Vale, they give us an opportunity to respond to the growing need for affordable homes in our wider neighbourhood. For us, it’s about building the right homes in the right places, while staying true to our purpose and values and continuing to invest in our local communities.

We know that Castle Vale is more than just where we provide housing, it’s a community.

That sense of community extends beyond our homes too. Castle Vale Stadium continues to be a place where people come together, whether through sport, events or shared activities, and it plays a vital role in bringing people of all ages together.

Alongside this, The Sanctuary offers a wide range of support, from Early Help and youth services to health and wellbeing programmes.

These services are there for our residents and the wider community alike, helping people access the support and guidance they need, when they need it most.

The Sanctuary on Tangmere Drive / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

As we look ahead, our focus remains the same, supporting strong, connected communities and making a positive difference both on Castle Vale and the local area.

For more on The Pioneer Group visitwww.pioneergroup.org.uk

The Pioneer Group are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

Click on the image below to read Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news, first published in the May to June ’26 Erdington Local newspaper.  

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: The Pioneer Group announces two new social housing developments in Erdington and Minworth

Representatives from Seddon Housing Partnerships and The Pioneer Group at the Burcote Road development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words by The Pioneer Group

The Pioneer Group has announced plans to develop two new housing sites at Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive, delivering 36 new social rent homes as part of its wider commitment to providing high‑quality, affordable housing across North Birmingham.

Work on both sites has begun, marking an important step in Pioneer’s ambition to build the right homes in the right locations.

The Pioneer Group is the modern day community led housing association, managing over 2500 homes across Castle Vale and other areas, that grew from the old Housing Action Trust (HAT) established in 1993 – as part of Government led a nationwide initiative to give more local power to underprivileged housing estates across the country.

Other Housing Action Trusts were established in London, Liverpool, and Hull.

The Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive developments form part of Pioneer’s wider strategy and development programme, which aim to deliver around 250 new homes over the next five years, supporting housing need while maintaining a strong focus on quality, affordability and place‑making.

 

At Burcote Road in Erdington, Pioneer will deliver 10 new homes for social rent with construction undertaken by partner Seddon. The scheme is being built on land purchased from Birmingham City Council and will be supported by funding from Homes England and Pioneer, with Seddon appointed as build partner.

Located within Erdington Ward, the development aligns closely with Pioneer’s Development Plans, which focuses on placing appropriate schemes in well‑connected locations where they can best meet local housing needs.

Tony Clark, Regional Director, Seddon Housing Partnerships, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with The Pioneer Group to deliver much-needed affordable homes at Burcote Road. This development reflects our shared commitment to creating high-quality, sustainable homes that will make a lasting positive impact for local communities.”

At Lindridge Drive in Minworth, Pioneer have put spades in the ground on a 26‑home social rent development, delivered in partnership with Morro Partnerships.  The scheme will provide a mix of modern, high‑quality homes designed to support individuals, families and long‑term community sustainability.

Representatives from Morro Partnerships and The Pioneer Group at the Lindridge Drive development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

Tom Broadway, Managing Director (West Midlands), Morro Partnerships said: “Delivering sustainable homes and helping communities thrive is our core focus at Morro. Choosing timber frame construction for our first project with our partners at Pioneer will not only speed up delivery, but also ensure the homes are more energy-efficient and cost-effective for future residents.

He added: “Building with the future in mind is a responsibility we take seriously, and we are excited to be working with Pioneer to deliver much needed homes in the area.”

The Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive schemes are supported by Homes England funding, alongside Pioneer’s own private financing to ensure schemes remain both deliverable and financially sustainable. This also includes just over £1.4 million in funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority, which has enabled Pioneer to move from an affordable rent model to social rent, helping to keep rents as low as possible for new tenants.

The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group (Copyright Phil Greig)

As an anchor organisation based in Castle Vale, Pioneer remains focussed on staying local, responsive and connected to the communities it serves.

While both Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive sit outside the Castle Vale estate, the developments reflect Pioneer’s commitment to using its strong local foundations to deliver affordable homes where they are most needed.

These projects also reflect Pioneer’s wider priorities to deliver great homes, support resilient communities and sustain the legacy of regeneration for future generations.

Simon Wilson, Chief Executive at The Pioneer Group, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing forward these two new developments, which represent another positive step in our long‑term commitment to delivering high‑quality social rent homes.”

He added: “By investing in the right sites, working with trusted partners and securing strong financial foundations, we can continue to meet housing need and support communities now and, in the years, ahead.”

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk

The Pioneer Group are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.