Paulette Hamilton MP by the Houses of Parliament / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
The first duty of any government is to keep its citizens safe. That’s why I’m proud this Labour Government is increasing defence investment 2.5% of GDP by 2027, the biggest sustained boost since the Cold War.
This commitment strengthens national security and ensures we have the capabilities to protect the UK and our allies.
But security isn’t just about national defence, it’s about keeping our communities safe too. After 14 years of Conservative neglect, our armed forces are stretched thin, and crime and anti-social behaviour are rising. Undoing the damage of the past will take time, but Labour is committed to rebuilding Britain and delivering for our communities.
Locally, I took a firm stand against an HMO application on Mason Road, leading a campaign backed by 386 residents. Birmingham City Council rejected the application, sending a clear message that enough is enough.
HMOs bring increased crime, put pressure on local services, and undermine initiatives like Operation Fearless, which aims to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
I joined West Midlands Police for an all-out day on Erdington High Street. With a new Public Spaces Protection Order in place and Operation Fearless making an impact, traders and shoppers are seeing a real difference.
I also held a coffee morning in Kingstanding, where residents raised crime and anti-social behaviour as top concerns. I’ll keep working with the police and local partners to tackle these issues.
From community campaigns to coffee mornings, I will keep fighting for a safer Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors – as identified against each article – and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.
If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: [email protected]
Words by Erdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives
(l-r) Cllr Gareth Moore and Cllr Robert Alden campaiging against library closures / Pic supplied by Birmingham Conservatives
Thank you to everyone who signed our petition opposing the proposed new HMO on Mason Road, we’re delighted to confirm, following our campaign, the application has been refused by the Council.
I’ve also been pushing for the Council to take enforcement action against the new chicken shop that has opened without planning permission on Mason Road.
Cllr Gareth Moore and I have been continuing our push for the Council to clean up our streets. This month we took our Conservative plan for a cleaner city, and wider amendment, to the budget meeting.
The amendment, signed off as deliverable by Council Finance officers and Commissioners, would’ve kept refuse collections weekly, scrapped Labours ‘Rat Tax’, and increased the number of street cleaners – as well as separately keeping every library including Erdington open full time. Sadly, this was rejected by the Labour Councillors.
This month the Labour Council have announced that due to their bin strike, which is now five days a week, they are not starting garden waste collections and continue to not collect recycling. Their current advice on refuse bins is to leave it out if it is not collected on your normal collection day.
We have been calling for the Council to refund residents who have paid for garden waste collections. The Council has now agreed, and a refund can be requested on their website.
We’re posting all the latest updates we have on the strike on our Facebook page, so follow us there to stay up to date.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors – as identified against each article – and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.
If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: [email protected]
Jack Brooks on the campaign trail for Reform UK inthe 2022 Erdington, Birmingham by-election / Pic supplied by Reform UK
Conscripted to die for a lie; arrested for telling the truth.
The establishment wants to conscript your children to die in the pointless war in Ukraine. Will the politicians send their children? Either all of us go, or none of us go. If we die, then the establishment will die with us.
The leadership (I include Farage and Tice) of all parties should send their kids to the front lines (both genders – inclusivity is a must).
Starmer called us “far right”, now he wants us to fight? If the best of us go over to Ukraine, what will happen in the UK during our absence?
Given the political parallels in Europe, I have come to the conclusion that a war would be perfect for the liberal world order because those of us that would rise up against the boots of communism and anarcho-tyranny will end up dead on some foreign field.
In February 2023 a colleague in the Reform Party (a veteran) revealed the truth – to me and others – about the Ukraine war in his co-authored document.
The leadership of Reform have ignored this document.
Billions in money laundering and corruption, and weapons sold to our enemies; yet the Labour Government has found another £2 billion for this war whilst our pensioners freeze to death.
The Conservatives and Labour have lied us into war before: remember Blair, Campbell, Cameron and co with the Iraq war.
To all UK party leaders: “We will not die for a lie!”
For more on Jack Brookes from Reform UK visit www.reformparty.uk/birmingham-erdington-constituency
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.
If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: [email protected]
Thank you to everyone who signed our petition opposing the proposed new HMO on Mason Road, we’re delighted to confirm, following our campaign, the application has been refused by the Council.
I’ve also been pushing for the Council to take enforcement action against the new chicken shop that has opened without planning permission on Mason Road.
Cllr Gareth Moore and I have been continuing our push for the Council to clean up our streets. This month we took our Conservative plan for a cleaner city, and wider amendment, to the budget meeting.
The amendment, signed off as deliverable by Council Finance officers and Commissioners, would’ve kept refuse collections weekly, scrapped Labours ‘Rat Tax’, and increased the number of street cleaners – as well as separately keeping every library including Erdington open full time. Sadly, this was rejected by the Labour Councillors.
This month the Labour Council have announced that due to their bin strike, which is now five days a week, they are not starting garden waste collections and continue to not collect recycling. Their current advice on refuse bins is to leave it out if it is not collected on your normal collection day.
We have been calling for the Council to refund residents who have paid for garden waste collections. The Council has now agreed, and a refund can be requested on their website.
We’re posting all the latest updates we have on the strike on our Facebook page, so follow us there to stay up to date.
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Officer Afzal Hussain outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King
At Witton Lodge Community Association, we see the power of community-led action on a daily basis, and the incredible impact this has on improving the area and the lives of local residents.
Through our community hubs across the Erdington, we provide a comprehensive support system that is easily accessible and provides numerous services to thousands of residents in the heart of our community.
We continue to advocate for more community services and recently hosted visits from Cllr Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member of Health and Social Care and Joanne Roney, the newly appointed Managing Director for Birmingham City Council.
We also hosted a hugely successful marketplace at Perry Common Community Hall, bringing a diverse range of local community and council services direct to our residents.
Against a difficult financial backdrop for the City Council, we hope to continue to work with the Council and demonstrate that there is another way to deliver local services that work with the grain of communities.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group
It’s hard to believe that it has been five years since the Covid pandemic started and cast a dark shadow over so many lives.
As a housing association our world stopped and changed forever as the pandemic struck. As a business we had to adapt to working and providing services remotely for the first time and of course as events unfolded stepped up alongside the whole community on Castle Vale to help those in need.
We helped coordinate a Covid Taskforce alongside the likes of Spitfire Services, church groups, the schools and local organisations all of which coordinated a huge range of provision from medication and food deliveries to welfare calls.
Much of the effort relied on volunteers and goodwill. Many colleagues couldn’t work from home and carried on with vital services in the community.
In many ways it showed something about Castle Vale I have always known. When times are tough and the community faces a challenge it will respond, it will come together and it won’t be done to, it will stand up for itself.
It’s easy to forget with the passage of time just how scary those days where and sadly too many families they would lose loved ones – they will never forget and nor should we.
If you follow the news this can also be seen as quite a scary time with global political and economic uncertainty and closer to home we remain conscious of the real world impact of cost of living crisis and fragile state of many public services.
It feels timely and important to reflect on what we can achieve as a community alongside remembering those we lost.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Ash Porter / Pic supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)
UDB Mobile Youth Venue in Perry Common / Pic supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham
If you’ve ever seen a big blue van cruising through Erdington or parked near your home, you might have witnessed something special—UDB’s Mobile Youth Venue (MYV) in action!
At UDB, we believe in young people. We invest in them, support them, and create spaces where they can be themselves, connect with friends, and have fun.
Through our youth drop-ins and activities, we offer a welcoming environment where young people can relax, enjoy a snack, and feel at home. But we know that not everyone finds it easy to step into a youth club—so we bring the youth club to them!
Our MYV is more than just a van — it’s a moving safe space. Step inside, and you’ll find comfy seating, heating, game consoles, and even a small kitchen.
Whether parked by some local houses, outside school, a community hub, or a park, it allows us to reach young people where they are, making sure no one is left out.
Maybe you’ve seen us parked up near a shop, by a park, or at an event — if you ever do, come say hello! We’d love to meet you and show you around!
So, next time you see the big blue van, give us a wave or stop by — because every young person deserves a place to belong.
Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
An Erdington man has been jailed for over five years after pleading guilty to charges related to a shooting on Chudleigh Road in July 2024.
Desie Dalton-Byrne, who lives on Chudleigh Road, received his sentence at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 6 March – with West Midlands Police now releasing more details of the case.
Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to charges including possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition for a firearm without a certificate.
Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
The most serious of the charges faced by Dalton-Byrne, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, could have seen him sentenced to a decade behind bars for that crime alone.
The other charges could also have carried jail time of between 5-10 years each – as directed by the sentencing guidelines from the Crown Prosecution Service.
Firearm found on Low Wood Road during investigation of shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
The 21-year-old was arrested in September 2024 after police scoured CCTV from across the area and talked to witness.
Chudleigh Road sits between Reservoir Road and Marsh Lane – two busy thoroughfares connecting Erdington Town Centre to Stockland Green – with the firearm eventually retrieved from a garden on neighbouring Low Wood Road.
From the evidence gathered by investigating officers, Dalton-Byrne can be seen on CCTV brandishing a weapon – with reports stating shots were fired at a group of people on Chudleigh Road at around 6:30pm.
Dressed in what appears to be a black tracksuit with white trims, he can be seen leaving the driver’s side of a parked vehicle, before waving the gun above his head, then aiming it down the street whilst standing in the middle of the road.
Entrance to Chudleigh Road from Reservoir Road / Image taken from Google Maps
No one was injured during the shooting, and as Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to the charges he was not asked to explain his actions in court. After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midland Police stated: “the motive of the shooting has never been revealed.”
Detective Inspector Matt Marston, from WMP’s Major Crime Unit, added: “Firearms and drugs play a significant role in criminality on our streets. It persistently erodes communities, ruining lives and blighting communities.
“As a result of this discovery, we’ve taken a deadly weapon off the streets, and an individual with direct access to it is behind bars.”
He added: “We hope this sentence will offer a deterrent to other criminals who act in this way.”
CCTV footage of gunman brandishing firearm on Chudleigh Road
Erdington has had significant investment from West Midlands Police over recent months, with two policing initiatives being launched in the constituency – Operation Skybridge in October 2024, and Operation Fearless in January 2025.
Operation Fearless, which is focusing activities on and around Erdington High Street, has seen a team of 20 specially recruited officers tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in the Town Centre.
Since its launch in January 2025, Operation Fearless has seen 75 arrests for crimes from shoplifting and possession of an offence weapon, to assault and possession with intent to supply. The initiative has also seized hundreds of thousands of pounds in illegal drugs and contraband.
Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
In an exclusive update to Erdington Local, Detective Superintendent and Operation Fearless Lead Jim Munro told: “Since Operation Fearless launched on 7 January, we’ve now made 75 arrests and carried out 120 stop and searches. Of those 75 arrests, 44 people have already been charged and are now going through the courts.”
“Many of you have noticed a real improvement on the High Street, with comments like “What a difference Operation Fearless has made! Not only is it looking cleaner, but people seem a lot happier – a definite buzz of positivity in the air!” This kind of feedback, and the positive interactions our officers have received while out on patrol, confirms we’re on the right track.”
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
He added: “We still have a lot of work to do and we’re not slowing down. In fact, we’re working even harder. We’re teaming up with great partners and we’re always looking for ways to do better.
“We’re listening to you and working hard to make things better for the residents of Erdington. We’re all in this together, and we’ll keep you updated on what we’re doing.”
Urban Devotion Birmingham team photo outside Hope House / Image supplied by UDB
Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) is a Christian charity working in North East Birmingham, with a mission to empower young people and their families. Founded in 2003, and officially registered as a charity in 2005, UDB supports over 2,500 individuals each year.
The charity aims to help those it engages with to become confident, well-rounded individuals, while building strong and supportive relationships within the community.
It runs various programs, such as drop-in clubs, mentoring, therapeutic support, detached youth work, and educational services in schools. UBD also runs faith-based groups for those who want to explore spirituality, aiming to help young people become confident and well-rounded individuals.
Urban Devotion Birmingham in session at St Barnabas Church, Erdington / Image supplied by UDB
Urban Devotion Birmingham is based at Hope House, 148 Witton Lodge Road in Perry Common – but its services span across several areas of the community, including Pype Hayes, Stockland Green, and neighbouring areas.
One of UDB’s key vehicles for outreach is its Mobile Youth Venue – a converted van that travels to different locations in the community during the week. This mobile service makes youth programs more accessible to young people by meeting them where they live and spend their time.
Amy Heyes, Co-Founder of UBD, said: “Our work is about removing the obstacles that hold people back. The children and young people of Erdington are brilliant, and we love getting the opportunity to support them as they grow.”
Urban Devotion Bimringham in kayacking session / Image supplied by UDB
Amy added: “At UDB, we believe that everyone has something to contribute, and we want to encourage people to play their part – our work wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who are all central in helping to provide the services we do, to the local community.
“We welcome any one who’s interested in getting involved to stop by Hope House and say hello, our friendly team are always up for a chat.”
A parent, whose child attends many sessions at the charity, also told: “I don’t know what my boys would have done without UDB – they wouldn’t have had the experiences they have had here, without them.
“It’s a fun and inclusive environment for children and young people, especially to meet new people and make friends. It’s like a family here, and my boys love being a part of the UDB family.”
Urban Devotion Birmingham team next to Mobile Youth Venue / Image supplied by UDB
UDB’s focus is not just to provide services to the community. With a strong emphasis on empowerment from a young age and creating opportunities, the charity also works to ensure young people are playing an active role in shaping their futures.
Volunteers play an essential role in the charity’s work, from mentoring young people to helping run events and practical activities like transport or gardening.
Those who wish to support Urban Devotion Birmingham can also donate goods and help in spreading the word about their work.
For further information on Urban Devotion Birmingham and a calendar of its upcoming events and programmes, please visit www.urbandevotion.org or call 0121 350 9370.
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: [email protected]
Simon Harris presented with ‘Outstanding Contribution to SEND’ at University of Wolverhampton / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School
Wilson Start School Stuart Executive Headteacher, Simon Harris, has been presented with the inaugural ‘Outstanding Contribution to SEND’ award from the University of Wolverhampton.
Established to recognise individuals who have made a significant impact on SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) provision, the award was presented to Mr Harris during a lecture he was delivering at the university – with the Wilson Stuart Headteacher completely unaware he was to be honoured.
After receiving the ‘Outstanding Contribution to SEND’ award, Mr Harris told Erdington Local: “It a complete shock, and I was not expecting this type of award. But it is also important to stress that everything we do at Wilson Stuart is a team effort, and it isn’t fair to spotlight one person. All of our roles work together for the good of the children we educate and care for on a daily basis.”
He added: “We have a seamless team of 182 people who help me every day to do my job, and this award is for each and every one of them.”
Simon Harris (left) joined at Wilson Stuart School by High Sheriff of the West Midlands, Douglas Wright MBE DL (right) / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School
Wilson Stuart School began as an educational institution in 1902, originally called the Dean Street Cripple School and renamed after the prominent orthopaedic surgeon Francis Wilson Stuart in 1954.
Moving to Perry Common in 1956, Wilson Stuart School is now situated next to Dovedale School and The Hive College – all established for young people with SEND – and provides education for what Mr Harris previously described to Erdington Local as “pretty much the most complex children, physically and medically, in the city.”
Becoming part of the Education Impact Academy Trust (EIAT) in March 2012, alongside Queensbury School and Mayfield School, Wilson Stuart School currently has up to 270 school places for children aged between 2 and 19 years old.
Simon Harris (right) with student (left) and Gruffalo (centre) celebrating ‘The Book Project’ at Wilson Stuart School / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School
Recognised as an exemplary educator, during his tenure as Executive Headteacher Mr Harris has taken Wilson Stuart through several Ofsted inspections, maintaining the highest rating from the education ombudsman.
In the school’s most recent inspection, in December 2024, Mr Harris was praised for “lead[ing] the school with high ambition and enthusiasm” as Wilson Stuart School was again awarded the ‘Outstanding’ grade – the seventh consecutive top mark from Ofsted, according to school staff.
The Wilson Stuart School staff, whom Mr Harris also previously described as being “fiercely committed [people who] work incredibly hard”, were also praised by Ofsted for giving their students “the highest level of care and expectations”.
Steve Hughes OBE, former EIAT Chief Executive, joined Mr Harris at the presentation and celebrated his ongoing achievements in SEND education, referring to him as a “pioneer” in the field.
Simon Harris (left) joined bt Steve Hughes OBE (right) during award presentation / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School
Queensbury School Executive Headteacher, Chris Wilson, also spoke about how Mr Harris has and continues to “break disability barriers”, creating a more inclusive and balanced education system for all learners.
Mr Wilson continued to say: “Simon Harris has been a beacon of hope, an advocate for change, and tireless champion for students with special educational needs in any school.”
He added: “The words ‘I can’t’ are not in his vocabulary and his DNA is probably coded to say ‘Better Never Ends’”, referencing the Wilson Stuart School motto.
In a post made on the Wilson Stuart School website, a spokesperson for the Education Impact Academy Trust told how EIAT is “very proud to have Simon Harris working as part of the family of schools in the trust” and how his “dedication, passion and vision” have “changed lives of countless students, families and staff” for many schools that offer SEND provision.
