Paulette Hamilton MP at coffee morning / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Words by Paulette Hamilton MP
The summer recess has given me the perfect opportunity to do what I love most, focusing my energy right here in our community. I’ve been listening to you across Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott, away from the busy corridors of Westminster. It’s where I belong, listening, learning, and fighting for our community at every turn.
It was a privilege to host fantastic coffee mornings in Pype Hayes and Perry Common, where I heard directly about the issues that matter most, from the danger of speeding cars on our streets to the pressing need for better, adequate housing. I will be holding another coffee morning in Castle Vale soon, so please keep an eye out more for details.
Erdington High Street’s Summer Fun Day was simply brilliant and full of energy, with so many local groups showcasing the vital work that makes our community special. I was also privileged to host a pop-up surgery there, meeting residents face-to-face and hearing your concerns, just as I’ve always promised.
Paulette Hamilton MP in Westminster / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
And as always, I am acting on what you’ve shared. As promised, I have scheduled a site meeting with council officers at Conker Island to urgently address the unsafe play equipment and damaged bins that residents have rightly raised.
I hope you enjoyed your summer. I certainly did, meeting so many of you has reinforced why I fight so hard. Now, it’s back to Parliament to tackle the legacy of Conservative chaos and to champion Erdington both here and in Westminster.
Jack Brookes on the campaign trail in Erdington, during the 2022 by-election / Photograph supplied by Jack Brookes
Words by Jack Brookes
Hoist the colours! Kingstanding and other areas of Birmingham have fantastic displays of our flags; when Reform wins the locals next year and takes control of Birmingham City Council then I vow that, not only will we keep the flags up but, we will put up more flags. Birmingham, the heart of England, we have found our pride again and it will not go away.
The beautiful sight of our flags being flown all over the UK with pride. These peacefully patriotic acts of defiance against the globalist establishment reminds me of Belfast – where I attended university – except, this time we are all united (rising above sectarianism).
However, the current Labour-run Birmingham City Council has shown its true colours by cutting down our flags and condemning us patriots for putting up our flags. We are not fascists, we are patriots! If Birmingham City Council has a problem with the cross of Saint George or the Union flag because of “safety”, then they have to be consistent and take issue with the flying of LGBTQIA+ flags and Palestinian flags.
We must remember who sacrificed most for our flags: our veterans. We must put veterans to the front of the queue. One policy I am proposing is to repurpose unused parts of parks, such as Finchley Park, with allotments – priority allocation going to our veterans. We need to start digging for victory again.
The Councils may cut down our flags, but we will keep on raising more. Keep flying the flags.
(l-r) Cllr Moore, Cllr Alden on Erdingotn HIgh Street / Photograph by Ed King
Words byErdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives
Over the summer Cllr Gareth Moore and I have continued our campaign fighting the growth of badly run exempt accommodation and HMOs in the area.
Every converted house that residents report to us we report to the Council to inspect.
We have been raising issues with a number of exempt accommodation units with Severn Trent regarding if the sewer system can handle all additional bathrooms, the Fire Service to inspect if adaptations have been carried out safely and legally, especially since many are in terraced houses and connect to neighbouring properties, building control to discuss if regulations have been followed for conversion work, and with the Police regarding any incidents that have taken place.
We have also held public meetings (Gareth pictured meeting with residents off Erdington High Street regarding a property being converted) and met providers to raise concerns directly.
Cllr Gareth Moore at public meeting over HMOs / Photgraph supplied by Birmingham Conservatives
The big barrier with stopping the growth of supported exempt accommodation is the fact it is currently exempt from planning permission due to the 2004 Housing Act. This literally means that someone does not need planning permission to convert a family house into this type of accommodation.
Clearly this is totally wrong and must change. That is why we have been calling on the Government to introduce a statutory instrument to amend the 2004 housing act so that it requires planning permission going forward and can then be restricted to stop the further loss of family housing.
Urban Devotion Birmingham team photo – summer 24 / Photograph supplied by UDB
Words by Emma Winmill, Co-Director at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Pic supplied by UDB
As we head into autumn, we’re celebrating all the children and young people stepping into the new term with courage – and those who cheer them on.
A new term can bring a jumble of emotions: excitement, nerves, fresh opportunities, and the challenge of getting back into routines. It’s normal to feel a mix of things all at once, and sometimes it takes a little time to settle in.
At Urban Devotion Birmingham, we want children and young people to know that whatever this season holds, there’s always space to slow down, connect, and be themselves.
Our free drop-ins continue across Erdington, with games, sports, crafts, PS5, and plenty of snacks. They are a chance to have fun, try new activities, and meet friends in a safe and welcoming space. Everyone is welcome, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming for years.
These sessions are a reminder that taking a moment to play, relax, and connect can make a real difference as the term gets underway.
We have a variety of activities in Erdington for young people, children, and families.
Dave Livesey, Asset Management & Development Director – The Pioneer Group / Photograph by Phil Greig
Words by Dave Livesey, Asset Management & Development Director – The Pioneer Group
In 2024, we launched our Windows and Doors Programme in direct response to customer feedback, with the aim of making homes safer, warmer, and more energy efficient. As the project nears completion, we’re proud to reflect on the positive impact it has had across our homes and the community.
Backed by a multimillion-pound investment, the programme set out to upgrade over 2,000 properties with modern, secure windows and doors. So far, 1,694 homes have been fully completed, with work underway on a further 243 properties.
Beyond the physical improvements, the programme has also delivered social value back into our community. Nationwide Windows and Doors, our delivery partner, has re-engaged with the community, supporting events such as the Castle Vale Community Festival.
Their commitment to giving back continues to grow, with plans for further investment in local activities.
We’re proud of the progress made and pleased to share these figures as the programme enters its final stages this autumn.
For more on Nationwide Windwos and Doors visit www.nwd.co.uk
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Erdington’s undefeated professional MMA star, Mo ‘Terminator’ Zubair, is preparing for his next fight – this time taking on Sweeden’s Mateo Lerena on Saturday 13 September.
To be held at the Västerås Kongress entertainment and exhibition venue – in Västerås, Sweeden – the international bout is being organised by Fight Club Rush (FCR), Scandanivia’s self-declared ‘fastest growing MMA organisation’.
Taking a break from training, Mo Zubair told Erdington Local: “I’m looking forward to showcasing my skillset on FCR – it’s a huge show, live on UFC Fight Pass which goes out to millions of people across the world.”
He added: “I’ve worked hard for this opportunity a win here takes me one more step closer to my dream of signing to the UFC.”
UFC Fight Pass, the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s official digital streaming service, is a global media platform for the sport – broadcasting over 40 fights each year to over 600,000 subscribers across the world.
The attention from UFC in broadcasting this event is a shot in the arm to Zubair’s rising profile within the world of MMA, as he attempts to follow in the footsteps of Team Renegade peer and UFC World Champion Leon ‘Rocky’ Edwards.
Both Mo Zubair and Leon Edwards were raised in North Birmingham and trained at the Ultimate Training Centre gym, that was once located on Erdington High Street, with the two young sportsmen finding the world of MMA a lifeline in their youth.
Zubair previous told Erdington Local: “Leon is a big inspiration to me; he has been really supportive. He has let me join him in training camps and join him on the circuit.”
He added: “He proves what can be achieved. We are alike, we both came from the streets and just turned up to the gym and changed our lives.”
Mo ‘Terminator’ Zubair announced winner after beating Spain’s Santata Nester, March 2024 / Photograph supplied by Mo Zubair
Mo Zubair moved into professional MMA in March 2024, facing off against Spain Santata Nester and beating his opponent by corner stoppage in the first round.
His next fight, against Darlington’s Liam Thoams – who stood three inches over Zubair – saw him knock out his opponent with a precision placed left hook in the first ten seconds of the fight, despite Zubair only accepting the bout eight days prior to stepping in the ring.
Zubair currently has five professional fighters to his name, winning four of them in the first round.
Only Mauro Pina, also from England, managed to last the distance with Zubair – but lost to unanimous judges’ decision, allowing Zubair to maintain his unbeaten professional record.
Mateo Lerena has fought two professional MMA bouts and is also undefeated.
Zubair fights mostly in the Bantamweight class, standing 5ft 7in and weighing in at 126lbs. Mateo Lerena fights both Bantamweight and Flyweight, standing at 5ft 7in and weighing in at 130 lbs.
Mo ‘Terminator’ Zubair will face Mateo Lerena on 13 September at the Västerås Kongress in Sweeden.
The fight will be broadcast on UFC Fight Pass, for more details and to secure a live stream visit: www.ufcfightpass.com
Alternatively, for more details for on Mo Zubair’s fight against Mateo Lerena visit www.facebook.com/fightclubrushfcr
And click on the following links to follow Mo ‘Terminator’ Zubair on Instagram and Facebook.
Community anchor organisations across Birmingham are invited to join the ranks of a new collaboration network aiming to transform local lives and revitalise our neighbourhoods.
The offer is open to all community-led groups who deliver services which benefit city communities and the people living and working in them.
The Birmingham Community Action Network (B:CAN) brings together some of the most dynamic and influential community organisations in support of one strategic goal – to drive and deliver impactful change across the city.
A number of B:CAN led initiatives have already taken shape in communities across Birmingham. B:CAN Mental Health is being coordinated and delivered by five partners who deploy friendly service advisors to help people on a range of issues.
B:CAN Energy, supported by Energy Redress funding, involves teams of Community Energy Advisors providing people with accessible energy advice to help them save money, reduce household energy use and support with suppliers and debt issues.
Strength in numbers
Now, organisations are being invited to apply to join the Network to further strengthen collaboration, improve provision and extend the reach of services to those people who need it most across Birmingham.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a proud member of B:CAN with Chief Officer, Afzal Hussain leading the network as its current Chair. He said the Network’s potential to impact lives and create a legacy of positive change for Birmingham is an opportunity not to be missed.
“This new network has come together to do things differently in tackling and reducing inequality and deprivation in Birmingham and local communities need a central role in the decision-making process, so effective change is delivered where it is needed most,” told Afzal.
He added: “We welcome applications from organisations and groups based in Birmingham that share our ethos of community-led action. This is a fantastic opportunity to not only strengthen the B:CAN network and reach more residents but to make new connections and access funding opportunities.
“Whether you’re a small, local group just starting out, or a larger established organisation, B:CAN is your chance to develop sector connections that will help develop and grow your business while enhancing the Network’s reach and output.”
So far, 21 of the city’s most respected community organisations have joined B:CAN to work together to collaboratively bring positive and impactful change across the city.
Join B:CAN
Applications are now being invited from Birmingham based community organisations to join the network as either a Member or Affiliate and we also welcome applications from partners who are interested in funding the B:CAN network or B:CAN projects.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Kingstanding police helping distribute school uniforms at McDonald’s in Kingstanding / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Words by Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) were thrilled and privileged to support a wonderful school uniform giveaway which has given local families a timely boost ahead of the new academic year.
Kingstanding Police Constable, Faye Purcell, came up with the fantastic idea of kitting out primary school children, while sitting in her garden three weeks ago!
Community collaboration
More than 40 families have benefited from the Back-To-School initiative which was delivered in partnership with Vision 4 All, Perry Common Community Watch, and Remmer Restaurants (McDonald’s).
“A few weeks ago I was on leave, just sat in my garden and thinking to myself, what can I do to give something back to the local community,” said Faye.
“Then the school uniform idea just popped into my head and I felt it was something that could be achieved. I made a couple of phone calls to see if people would be interested in supporting the idea and lo-and-behold here we are, three weeks later, giving families and their children a real boost. It’s fantastic.”
An appeal was put out to Erdington families with children aged from five-to-11 years inviting them to claim free school essentials including uniform, stationary, pencil cases and bags.
Within 24-hours of the project being posted on social media all the had been claimed; issued to parents on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Vision 4 You helping distribute school uniforms at McDonald’s in Kingstanding / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Families benefit
Two sessions, one held at Witton Lakes Eco Hub and the other at the McDonald’s restaurant on College Road in Kingstanding gave families the chance to collect their items.
Franchise Manager at McDonald’s Nikki Remmer, said: “It’s been really wonderful to support families in the local community in this way.
“As soon as we heard about the project we wanted to get involved.”
The uniforms were donated by Vision 4 All.
Founder of B Major CIC, Bianca-Jade Adeniran, said: “This was the group’s second annual school uniform giveaway which is an amazing initiative, especially in these times that are challenging for so many families.”
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Castle Vale Town FC playing AFC Birmingham on Saturday 2 August at Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Words by Tracy Fisher
Castle Vale Town FC, aka the Spitfires, played their first game of the season against AFC Birmingham on Saturday 2 August – with the match played at their home ground, Castle Vale Stadium.
Established in 1998, and currently seventh in Division Three of the Midland Football League, the Castle Vale club recently signed four young players – including Rayarn Henry – who enjoyed their first competitive debut this month.
Minutes into the first half a visitor injury halted play, but as the game continued both sides fought hard to keep possession of the ball. A breakthrough for the Spitfires came shortly before half time with Josh Pitters scoring the first goal.
The second half created some good chances, and the team built momentum with Jordan Mackenzie scoring a second goal and setting the pace for the rest of the game.
Despite a missed penalty, five minutes later Owen Reynolds leapt into the box scoring the Spitfire’s third goal. An altercation between Zaman and one of the visitors created friction but was quickly diffused.
Just three minutes before full-time, Edam Suliman scored an impressive fourth goal, securing a win for Castle Vale Town FC before backflipping to celebrate the victory.
At full time the score was 4-0 to Castle Vale.
Castle Vale Town FC playing AFC Birmingham on Saturday 2 August at Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Manager Luke Evans told Castle Vale Local: “I’m really, really happy, we didn’t know what to expect from them today but they’re always a good side.
He added: “We’ve had a really good pre-season, and we prepared well, the kids that come off the bench did a really good job also, it was just a good day really, a good day in the office.”
Castle Vale Town FC are based at Castle Vale Stadium, behind Farnborough Road on the Castle Vale estate.
Castle Vale Town FC playing AFC Birmingham on Saturday 2 August at Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Castle Vale Stadium has been managed by The Pioneer Group since 2014, after the prominent estate landlord took responsibility for the sports facility from Birmingham City Council and saved it form closure.
Castle Vale Stadium also hosts local squads including Concords FC and Romulus FC.
PICTURE GALLERY: Castle Vale Town FC beat AFC Birmingham at Castle Vale Stadium / Photographs by Tracy Fisher
The next Summer Fun Day comes to Erdington High Street on Saturday 23 August, as organised by the Erdington Business Improvement District (BID).
Completely free to attend, the August Summer Fun Day runs from 12noon to 5pm on the pedestrianised area between Wilton Market and the B&M Superstore.
Hosting a range of free games and activities for children, there will be arts and crafts sessions, live music from local artists and choirs, and a bouncy castle for young people – all free to enjoy and paid for by the Erdington BID, as supported by local retailers.
Children on bouncy castle at Erdington BID’s Summer Fun Day on 26 July ’25 / Photograph by Ed King
Alongside the activities for young people, local community groups and services will be hosting tabletop displays, introducing residents to the volunteer and support activities they can access across the constituency.
Groups that have been present at the Summer Fun Days include Erdington Litter Busters, Erdington Walking Group, Short Heath Fields Trust, Erdington Lunar Society, Aquarius, Hope in Action, POMOC, Make a Change, Incredible Surplus, Arts All Over the Place, Erdington Arts Forum, Witton Lodge Community Association, and Erdington Local.
Erdington Lunar Society stall at Erdington BID’s Summer Fun Day on 26 July ’25 / Photograph by Ed King
Erdington BID will also be hosting a special pop-up kitchen, cooking up some burgers, hotdogs, and baps with fresh produce from longstanding Erdington butchers, City Meats – located in Wilton Market.
All money raised for the sale of food will be reinvested straight back into Erdington Town Centre, supporting future community events and projects on and around the High Street.
Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton will also be hosting a constituency surgery from a branded gazebo between 12noon and 2pm, inviting residents to talk to her directly about their concerns and issues affecting them on the local area.
Community groups stalls at Erdington BID’s Summer Fun Day on 26 July ’25 / Photograph by Ed King
Members of the local police team will be at the event, meeting local residents and talking to people about the work carried out by the Neighbourhood Police Team across the Town Centre and wider constituency.
West Midlands Fire Service Green Watch will also be bringing a real-life fire engine from the local station and inviting people to explore the emergency response vehicle and meet the fire fighters.
Organised over the summer months, the Summer Fun Days have run from June to August – brining hundreds of people and families to Erdington High Street, as part of a programme of community focused events from the new Town Centre Management team.
Children and families sitting on hay bales at Erdington BID’s Summer Fun Day on 26 July ’25 / Photograph by Darren Dodd
Erdington BID has organised the Summer Fun Days as part of its LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY campaign – encouraging people to celebrate the positives of Erdington Town Centre.
As the autumn and winter months come in, future events will be held that reflect the seasons – utilising the pedestrianised area and others spaces up and down the High Street for community activities and engagement.
A spokesperson from Erdington BID told: “We’re looking forward to another fantastic Summer Fun Day and hope to see families, residents, and shoppers back in the Town Centre for another free afternoon of family fun.”
LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY banner and volunteers at Erdington BID’s Summer Fun Day on 26 July ’25 / Photograph by Ed King
They added: “We’ve had a lot of fun over the summer months, and it’s been amazing to see so many people have such a good time back on Edrington High Street.
“Now we’re looking at what we can do in autumn and winter, how we can build on these first community events, how we can better celebrate our Town Centre, and how we can continue to encourage people to LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY.”
Check out some pictures from the previous Erdington BID Summer Fun Day events.
PICTURE GALLERY #1: Erdington BID’s first Summer Fun Day on 21 June / Photographs by Darren Dodd and Selina Gooden
PICTURE GALLERY #2: Erdington BID’s second Summer Fun Day on 26 July / Photographs by Darren Dodd and Ed King
For more information about the LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY campaign, or any events and activities in the Town Centre, please email Erdington BID at: erdingtonhighstreet@hotmail.co.uk
