Words by Councillor Ray Goodwin
Castle Vale has always been a community that punches above its weight. As we move into autumn, I am reminded once again that our greatest strength is our people.
Our recent community festival was a fantastic example of what makes the Vale special. It brought residents, local organisations and community groups together, showcasing the pride, talent and determination that exist across our neighbourhood.
We should never underestimate the power of bringing people together.
However, there is still work to do.
The household waste collection pilot continues to cause frustration, with residents raising concerns about missed collections and outstanding bins. I want the pilot to succeed, but that means listening to residents, resolving problems quickly and ensuring the service delivers what people have been promised.
As we approach winter, we must also recognise the pressures facing many households. Rising living costs, the challenge of keeping homes warm and the strain on family budgets will leave some residents struggling.
Working alongside organisations such as Spitfire Services, Upcycle Birmingham and Pioneer Housing will be vital in ensuring people know where to turn for help.
Being a councillor is about more than attending meetings or making promises. It is about listening, challenging decisions when necessary and working with residents to find practical solutions. Castle Vale is not without its challenges, but it has something incredibly valuable: a community that cares.
My commitment remains simple: to keep listening, keep speaking up and keep working to make Castle Vale a better place for everyone.
For more on Councillor Ray Goodwin www.facebook.com/thisiscastlevale
This article was first published in the Erdington Local monthly newspaper on 16 October.
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