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
People gathering at St Barnabas Community Hub / Photograph supplied by St Barnabas
Words by Hema Chumber
Since reopening in summer 2023, the St Barnabas Community Hub has established itself as a regular meeting point for residents on Erdington High Street.
Located inside the St Barnabas Church Centre, the Hub offers a weekly programme of free activities aimed at improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and encouraging social connection across different age groups.
The space was previously run as a café, but the operation became unsustainable following the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, the building was repurposed into a flexible community hub.
St Barnabas Churc, viewed from the churchyard on Erdington High Street / Photgraph by Ed KIng
Since its relaunch, the number of users and activities has steadily increased, as the Hub runs weekly sessions targeted at various demographics.
St Barnabas Community Hub’s goal is to provide an inclusive space where local people can access support, meet others, and take part in low-pressure group activities.
Natalie, Community Hub Manager at St Barnabas, said: “I think it’s so important for the people in the community to feel like, and know, that they have a safe and inclusive space here.
“We’ve gotten to know so many people and groups in the area over the past years, and lots of these actively volunteer with us – we’re looking at hosting an event in June to celebrate those who do, with it being Volunteer Week in that month.”
She added: “We also do a lot of signposting, as it’s important for us to help people in the local area get access to support if they need it.”
A service user, who asked not to be named, described St Barnabas Community Hub as a big part of their weekly routine.
They told: “I don’t know what I’d do without having the Hub here. It has really helped me.”
A 200 year anniversary celebratory cake with St Barnabas logo / Photograph supplied by St Barnabas
On Monday mornings, Barny Babies provides a term-time stay-and-play group for parents, carers, and pre-school children.
Tuesdays and Thursdays host Community Coffee Mornings, which are open to anyone who wants to drop in for a free drink and conversation.
Wednesdays begin with the Wellbeing Café for the Over 50s, a session focused on promoting healthy habits and peer support among older adults.
That afternoon, secondary school students can also attend the Urban Devotion Birmingham youth café, which offers a supervised space with free snacks and drinks, during school term time.
Thursday mornings are reserved for fitness-based activities.
Inspiring Fitness Women Only Circuit Training starts the day with a group workout, followed by Chatty Chairs, a seated exercise session for those with reduced mobility.
On Fridays, the Welcome Space offers a drop-in session with food, games, and opportunities for informal socialising.
The programmes at the Community Hub are reviewed regularly, and adapted to suit community feedback, allowing the Hub to remain responsive to local needs and offer relevant support.
For more information on St Barnabas Community Hub, please visit their website at www.stbarnabaserdington.org.uk and follow their Facebook page @StBarnabasErdington.
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
Outside of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development, taken from Mason Road (photograph by Joe Marchant)
Say it loud, say it proud, the former Erdington Baths is 100 years old this May!
The building on Mason Road opened to the public on 6 May 1925, offering the local community a range of exciting new recreational activities with its swimming pool, washing baths for men and women, and Turkish baths.
An Art Deco-inspired design captured the imagination of users and passers-by alike; sleek lines, elegant curves and distinctive brickwork with ornate detail; the facility’s rich history owes as much to its distinctive aesthetic charm as much as the activities it housed.
But after decades of service to the community, Erdington’s much-loved-landmark was closed down in 2014 after falling into a state of disrepair. But with its legacy still casting a proud shadow of former glories across the town, its centenary year brings us onto the cusp of an exciting new era for local residents.
Erdington Baths ticket booth circa 1925 / Photograph supplied by WLCA
The 100 year anniversary of Erdington Swimming Baths is a time to reflect on the cherished memories it gave local people, the bond it cemented with the local community and to use those special attachments and emotions to shape a bright new future for the site.
Witton Lodge Community Association is very proud and privileged to be leading on a project to transform the building into a state-of-the-art Enterprise Hub.
Funded in partnership with Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority, work on the £4million project kickstarted with the creation of a vibrant pocket park and recent strip out works getting the building ready for surveying.
The main entrance and former pool hall will be converted into a co-working space with studio pods and meeting rooms. A restaurant, creche and smaller offices are also included in the new design.
(L-R) WLCA CO Afzal Hussain, with BMet Principal/CEO Pat Carvalho and WM Mayor Richard Parker at launch of ‘Phase One’ of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, said Erdington’s past can be the springboard for shaping a future where it thrives.
“First of all, we, as an organisation, are thrilled to be breathing new life into this much-loved building,” he said.
“Community and people are at the heart of everything we do and want to achieve. We have held a number of engagement events at the site on Mason Road, so people can come and find out about the plans to transform the building into an enterprise hub and, most importantly, help co-design the look and feel of the building.
“We’ve heard so many wonderful stories from residents about learning to swim at the baths and how they took their children there for classes and met people who became their friends and family.
“The baths hold a special place in the hearts of local residents so it was always a priority for us to include those people in the development process; talking to them about how the building should be brought back into use, what should it look like, what services should run from there.”
WLCA welcome local residents and community volunteers to ‘Phase One’ of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
To underline this connection to the 100 year old baths, here are just a few of the comments captured from local people:
“It’s great for the area and will put Erdington on the map in a positive way.” – Mia Werson, Erdington resident and member of Friends of Witton Lakes
“This is exactly what Erdington needs. it will bring the community together.” – Angie Chapman, from The Recovery Foundation
“It is an exciting use of an historic building and a great opportunity to support Erdington’s economic growth.” – Rebekah Roebuck, Erdington resident
“It is nice to see the old swimming pool being used again on a community level.” – Elizabeth Walker, Erdington resident
Visitors see inside of Erdington Bath as ‘Phase One’ launch of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
These sentiments and more are the reasons why, as Afzal explains, the new hub will play a key role in shaping and sustaining success for residents and the community at large, for years to come.
“Our vision goes beyond simply transforming the physical structure and appearance of the former baths,” he said.
“We are committed to creating a facility that provides on-site support which nurtures local talent and empowers budding entrepreneurs and social enterprises to develop and flourish.
“As it did in the past, this historic building will sit at the very heart of Erdington life, bringing the community together, so that in 100 years from now, people will have just as many stories to tell and memories to share.”
Thanks to the support and guidance of Intervention Architecture Ltd, work has already been completed on a vibrant new pocket park outside the front of the building.
Dedicated volunteers, alongside members of the public and Erdington Walking Group worked tirelessly for two months, through rain and shine, to paint new life into the exterior of the former baths. Colourful planters and railings now entice passers-by.
To mark the baths centenary, Erdington Walking Group organised a special Commemorative Walk on Tuesday (5 May), also marking the hundredth birthday of Erdington Court Bowls Club later in the month.
Local volunteers working on pocket park outside the Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph supplied by WLCA)
With more than 150 members on its books, the bowls club is part of Erdington Recreational Trust, a registered charity that has existed for over 100 years. Bowls became part of the Club in 1925.
Starting on Mason Road, the 30 minute walk took participants on an information laden stroll to the Bowls Club on Bowling Green Close where people were able to tour the venue and take in its historical photographic exhibition; before returning back to the meeting point.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
A small but vibrant charity is helping people across Erdington and Birmingham discover their creative confidence – one poem, painting, or play at a time.
Arts All Over the Place (AAOtP) has been championing wellbeing through the arts for over 14 years, running regular creative workshops and sessions from a unit in the remaining Central Square shopping precinct on Erdington High Street.
From poetry and painting to crafts and drama, the creative activities AAOtP offer aim to uplift, empower, and connect people – particularly those living with disabilities – giving them a safe space to express themselves and try something new.
Central to the charity’s work is breaking down barriers and offering people the chance to build confidence in their creativity.
Masquerade mask making at The Sanctuary, Castle Vale / Pic supplied by Arts All Over the Place
Margaret Murray, Freelance Artist at Arts All Over the Place, said: “It’s really important for us to focus on individuals or groups who don’t get a lot of input from organisations, or haven’t had the chance to take part in certain things.
“We don’t want people or groups to feel marginalised.
“With this role you meet great pockets of people, it can be challenging at times, but more than anything, it’s rewarding. It’s about giving people a voice, to be visible and change things through visibility.”
Margaret comes from a teaching background in art and now uses her creative practice to engage with, and support, others in the community.
She added: “It’s important to encourage people who are low in confidence and self-esteem to realise their own potential and get involved with community projects.
“This can sometimes even be a stepping stone towards employment, and the social skills people gain let them feel more confident to take part in things within their communities.
“It’s a safe, sensitive, and understanding space with peer support.”
Decorated origami animals made during crafts workshops / Pic supplied by Arts All Over the Place
One of the group members recently used their experience with Arts All Over the Place to help in shaping their career, progressing to work as an arts coordinator in a care home – bringing music, writing, and creativity to this new setting.
Volunteers are also at the heart of everything AAOtP does, helping to run sessions and support participants. Their commitment recently shone through in a national charity initiative that caught the imagination of the group.
One talented knitter inspired them to take part in a project for Age UK, creating 500 miniature woolly hats to sit on top of Innocent smoothie bottles. For every bottle sold with a hat, a donation was made to Age UK – and the group is well on its way to going beyond that 500-hat target.
Whether it’s through art, drama, crafts, or community action, Arts All Over the Place continue to prove that creative expression has the power to bring people together, boost wellbeing, and open up new possibilities for everyone involved.
Making woolly hats to support Age UK charity / Pic supplied by Arts All Over the Place
Currently supporting a project to raise awareness over violence towards women and girls, AAOtP have been the central creative partner for the Mothers Without Hands programme – which will be holding a procession in Erdington Town Centre in June, led by internationally renowned artist Tereza Buskova.
Using their workshops to help build a special headdress that will be front and centre of the parade, which will begin at Oikos Cafe and walk down Erdington High Street towards St Barnabas Church, Arts All Over the Place participants are able to use their craetivity to support meaningful projects outside of their own sessions.
The group has also brought their energy and colour to communities across the Erdington constituency, with sessions held in Perry Common and on Castle Vale – alongside other venues across the city.
To find out more about Arts All Over The Place, their ongoing projects, or how to get involved, please visit their website at www.artsallovertheplace.org.uk
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
Eco Together members at Witton Lakes Eco Hub – outside / Image supplied by WLCA
Witton Lodge Community Association is delighted to announce that we will be running our third cohort of Eco Together – Witton Lakes, this May.
If you are passionate about the environment and want to make a positive impact but don’t know where to start? Join the Eco Together programme at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!
What is Eco Together?
Eco Together is more than just a course, it’s a community-driven movement powered by local people who care deeply about the environment and want to make a real, lasting difference right here in our neighbourhood.
At its heart, Eco Together is about bringing neighbours, friends, and colleagues together to explore practical, everyday actions that address the eco-crisis. It doesn’t require megaphones or superpowers, just a willingness to try something new and share the journey with others.
The Eco Together programme, held at Witton Lakes Eco Hub, is completely free and open to everyone, with no prior experience or expertise needed. The course runs over six sessions, with each session held in the welcoming, eco-friendly surroundings of Witton Lakes Eco Hub, a space designed with sustainability and community at its core.
Eco Together members at Witton Lakes Eco Hub – inside / Image supplied by WLCA
Each week, the group focuses on a different theme, including energy, transport, food, and resource use, exploring simple yet effective ways to make positive changes.
Sessions are interactive and supportive, encouraging everyone to select small actions to try out and then report back on at the next meeting, fostering a sense of shared purpose and accountability.
Read some of the brilliant reviews from previous cohorts below:
“I’ve enjoyed focusing on different topics each week as this has made me think about areas I haven’t done before.”
“There were many interesting speakers, I would like more courses like this!”
“It was great to meet likeminded eco-warriors.”
Ready to make a difference?
Join the 6-week programme starting Saturday, 3 May, running on selected dates until 19 July at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!
Participants must commit to at least four of the six sessions and will receive hints and tips. useful resources and engaging activities to support their ongoing eco-journeys. Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to book your spot early.
Join Witton Lakes Eco Hub and let’s work together for a greener, more sustainable future!
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
EcoGrow team at Court Lane Allotments / Image supplied by EcoGrow CIC
Words by Hema Chumber
In the spring of 2020, during the Covid-19 lockdown, a group of families with young children in Erdington came together with a shared goal: to address the growing challenges their community was facing, including food shortages and the lack of accessible green spaces for children to play and learn safely.
What began as a small grassroots effort evolved into EcoGrow CIC, a community-led environmental education group that focuses on sustainability, wellbeing, and environmental stewardship.
Based at Court Lane Allotments in Erdington, with activities now also operating from sites in Moseley and Sutton Coldfield, EcoGrow CIC has expanded to offer a range of programs designed to connect people with nature and promote community engagement.
The group provides adult gardening sessions, forest school programs for children, bush-craft workshops, and art and wellbeing activities.
Outdoor family cooking session at Court Lane Allotments / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC
In addition, EcoGrow offers environmental education in schools and community groups, as well as corporate team-building events that incorporate sustainability and hands-on learning.
Naomi Gregory, Environmental Educator at EcoGrow CIC, said: “I believe that by encouraging people to get outdoors and experience the wonders of the natural world, we can better understand our connection to it.
“Once we recognise this, we’re more likely to respect and protect the world around us.”
Celebrating Halloween with home grown pumpkin carving / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC
She added: “A normalising skill like gardening and growing our own food is gaining momentum, and it’s rewarding to be part of that in the community.”
One of the group’s standout services is its forest school program, which has become increasingly popular with local families.
Paula Sheldon, a parent whose children attend the sessions, added: “We’ve had the pleasure of being part of the EcoGrow community for nearly four years, and it’s been an absolute delight.
“As a family, we’re passionate about spending time outdoors and getting our hands dirty, and EcoGrow has provided us with the perfect platform to do just that.
“The forest school sessions have been a highlight for our children, who love exploring the outdoors and getting creative with art and nature.”
Children riding dressed up donkies as part of an special ‘unicirn and drago adventure’ / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC
She added: “The fire pit and mud play areas are always a hit, but what we appreciate most about EcoGrow is the sense of community they’ve fostered among families.
“It’s wonderful to see my children making new friends and learning valuable skills alongside us.”
One of EcoGrow’s new initiatives is the Salad Bags Project, which will run every Friday during term time from 12:30pm to 2:20pm.
People will help grow salad from seed and package it into bags for local distribution, promoting healthy eating and food security within the community.
EcoGrow will also host seasonal nature walks across various green spaces in Erdington, where people can learn about the environment, and connect with others who share an interest in nature.
Another new project is the fortnightly woodwork group, which will give community members the chance to develop practical woodworking skills, to create simple, yet useful items.
EcoGrow CIC team dressed up for the Spring Fair at Court Lane Allotments / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC
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
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless
Operation Fearless has made a significant impact on Erdington High Street since it launched in January this year, with 140 people arrested so far and the seizure of dangerous weapons and hard drugs from in and around Erdington Town Centre.
West Midlands Police have also now established a dedicated Erdington High Street police team, with a Sergeant leading six officers focused on crime and anti-social behaviour in the retail and shopping hub.
Giving Erdington Local readers the latest information on the special policing initiative, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro – the officer leading the Operation Fearless team – has a direct update for Erdington locals and residents.
Words by DSI Jim Munro / Pics supplied by Operation Fearless
Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
“We’ve made a really big step in making Erdington High Street a safer place. Since January, we’ve arrested over 140 people. This is a huge number and shows that we’re really listening to what you’ve been telling us.
“You were worried, and rightly so, about feeling unsafe walking down the High Street. You told us about shops being targeted, about drugs causing problems, and about the fear of violence. We heard you loud and clear.
“We’ve also taken dangerous weapons off the streets of Erdington before they could do any harm, seizing a live firearm, a zombie knife and multiple other weapons in separate incidents.
“We’ve arrested dangerous individuals for a whole range of offences including – robbery, burglary, assault, shop theft and much more. Other successful arrests saw one man arrested for child sex offences, and another for domestic kidnap.
Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King
“This success isn’t just because of the police. It’s because of you, the people who live here in Erdington.
“You called us when you saw something suspicious, you shared information with us, and you trusted us to do our jobs. Without your help, without you being our eyes and ears on the ground, we couldn’t have achieved this. We’re so thankful for all your support.
“And the good news doesn’t stop there. We’re hearing from you that things are changing. You’re telling us you feel safer in the area and businesses are noticing a real difference too. That’s exactly the kind of change we wanted to see.
“But we know we can’t stop now. We need to keep this momentum going, keep pushing for a safer Erdington. That’s why we’re putting a dedicated High Street team in place.
DSI Munro, PCC Simon Foster, Paulette Hamilton MP talking to staff in Iceland on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
“At the end of March, I had the privilege of walking the High Street with MP Paulette Hamilton and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster. We discussed the progress and future plans for Op Fearless.
“We all agree that while we’ve made strides, there’s still more to be done. Regeneration takes time, and we’re committed to tackling crime and making Erdington a place where everyone feels safe and proud.
“I’m optimistic about the future, especially with the collaboration we’re building between the new High Street team, the council, BID, and our security partners.
Erdington Police Station on Sutton New Road / Photgraph by Ed King
“The new team, consisting of six officers and a Sergeant, will be a constant presence on the High Street. They’ll be walking the streets daily, engaging with residents, and ensuring a visible and reassuring presence. Their focus will be on building relationships and maintaining a safe environment for everyone.
“As the Fearless team prepares to move to its next location at the end of this month, please know that our commitment to Erdington remains strong.
“While the team will be physically moving, we’ll continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained efforts to reduce crime.
Police tape on Erdington High Street as officers conduct investigation / Photograph by Ed King
“We know how important it is for you to stay informed about what’s happening in your community. That’s why we’re changing things up a bit. We want to keep that line of communication open and strong. So, from now on, you’ll be hearing directly from the person leading the charge on the High Street.
“I’m delighted to announce that I’ll be handing over this column to Sergeant Gary Grove, who will be heading up the new High Street team. They’ll be your go to source for updates on the work being done in the area.
“I encourage you all to engage with Sergeant Grove and their team. Share your feedback, voice your concerns, and continue to be an active part of making Erdington better.
(Left) Drugs seized by officers during search of Kenyjah James car and residential address, (right) Kenyjah James following arrest for possession with intent to supply / Pics supplied by West Midlands Police
An Erdington drug dealer has been jailed for possession with intent to supply Class A narcotics including crack cocaine and heroin, taking thousands of pounds of dangerous drugs off the streets.
The arrest and processing through the courts comes as the Operation Fearless policing initiative continues to clampdown on crime in Erdington Town Centre – working alongside the recently introduced Erdington High Street police team and local partners.
Appearing before Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 10 April, Kenyjah James, aged 25, pleaded guilty to the charges against him and was sentenced to four years in prison – avoiding a longer term for a crime that could have seen him face life imprisonment, based on the amount of drugs and his role within the supply chain.
Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
Operation Fearless and High Street officers apprehended James after responding to reports of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour on Tuesday 25 February, after the police were alerted to a man damaging a car park gate.
Whilst attending the scene, officers detained James and searched his vehicle – discovering around 190 ‘wraps’ of both cocaine and heroin and two mobile phones, with potential links to a drug dealing operation.
Following a further search of his home address, police officers discovered yet more Class A and Class B narcotics and charged James with possession and intent to supply a controlled substance.
Sign outside Birmingham Crown Court / Photgraph by Ed King
After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midlands Polcie confirmed: “A man [has] been jailed for drug offences after he was arrested by our Operation Fearless officers in Erdington.
“Kenyjah James, aged 25, was sentenced to four years in prison when appeared at Birmingham Crown Court last Thursday (10 April).”
They added: “He had pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing Class A drugs including crack cocaine and heroin, with intent to supply.
“The drugs were… confirmed as being approximately 190 wraps of cocaine and heroin, with an estimated value of around £2,000.”
Operation Fearless has been in action across Erdington Town Centre since January 2025, making over 140 arrests (at the time of writing) and stamping down on crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail district.
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
Handing over from the main Operation Fearless team, as they begin to deploy officers in other hot spots across the city, Erdington High Street has also welcomed a dedicated police team – including a Seargent and six uniformed officers that will focus on crime in and around the Town Centre.
The Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) is also “beefing up” their High Street security and leading a High Street Community Team of local partners and community groups, to further support the incoming High Street police team and retail hub.
A spokesperson from the Erdington BID told: “The extra policing we’ve seen this year, under Operation Fearless and now with the new High Street police team, has made a significant impact on the crime in Erdington Town Centre – but it needs our support to make it last.
Rainbow falls on Erdington Town Centre sign by Six Ways Island / Photograph by Ed King
“We will be beefing up our High Street security, who have a strong relationship with the retail community here and know many of the repeat offenders – and who can directly support both the Operation Fearless and new High Street police team through joint patrols and intelligence sharing.
“We will also be establishing a High Street Community Team, made up of local community groups and volunteers – to help with everything from supporting a series of family friendly events on the High Street, to litter picking and looking after the green spaces.”
They added: “Erdington High Street was once one of the busiest in the city, and whilst many businesses have moved online we still want a Town Centre that is a vibrant and family friendly place to shop and socialise.
“Following in the footsteps of Operation Fearless, the new dedicated High Street police team – supported by our Street Wardens and local community groups – gives us a chance to break the cycle of crime and make a real and lasting change in the heart of Erdington.”
To find out more about working with the Erdington Business Improvement District to support the High Street and Town Centre email: erdingtonhighstreet@hotmail.com
Rainbow reflection on Erdington Town Centre sign near Six Ways Island / Photograph taken by Ed King
Erdington Town Centre has been allocated its own dedicated High Street police team to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail hotspot.
Working alongside the Operation Fearless policing initiative, the Erdington High Street police team will bring six constables, led by Sergeant Gary Grove, to the Town Centre – creating “a high visibility presence on the High Street to tackle the issues that matter to residents, shoppers and traders”, according to a West Midlands Police spokesperson.
The officers will also work with the Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) Street Wardens, conducting joint patrols on the High Street and sharing intelligence about criminal activity and regular offenders in the area.
Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street as part of Operation Fearless / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police)
The team will also work alongside local partners including Birmingham City Council and Transport for West Midlands, to further tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and build on the work already being delivered by the responsible authorities.
The dedicated Erdington High Street police force, led by Sgt Grove, has been operational since 4 April, working in tandem with the Operation Fearless team to share information and continue the “sustained effort to reduce crime” in the retail hub.
Alongside the 140 arrests made by the Operation Fearless, Sgt Grove’s new High Street police team have made a further 17 arrests in the past few weeks – keeping the pressure on criminals who have operated in the area, including those involved in drug dealing and shoplifting.
Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King
Sergeant Gary Grove told: “It’s clear to see the difference [Operation] Fearless has made to Erdington, and we’re committed to building on that.
“Myself and my colleagues have experience working as part of the Erdington Impact Area team – and we’re working hard to build on existing relationships around the area.”
Underlining the importance of working with Erdington locals, the business community, and the wider general public visiting the area, Sgt Grove added: “If you’re out and about in Erdington or have any concerns you’d like to discuss, please come and say hello to us.”
The Erdington BID is also currently establishing a High Street Community Support Team to work alongside Sgt Grove and his team – made up of local volunteers and community groups and addressing non-response issues.
The Erdington BID High Street Community Support Team will be investing more into High Street security, and offering help with activities including consumer and visitor advice, litter picking, maintaining the High Street’s green spaces, and helping busy businesses report lower level crimes.
A spokesperson for the Erdington BID, who act as the link between the local police and retail community, told: “Erdington High Street needs a constant, uniformed, public facing police presence – with the power to arrest criminals and process them to the courts – and having a dedicated High Street police team will be a huge support to the local business community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sergeant Grove and his team to the area and offer our full support.”
They added: “Operation Fearless, and now Sgt Grove and his High Street police team, have given Erdington a real chance to properly challenge the criminal activity in Erdington Town Centre – but we can all help.
“If we want to keep the crime away, and to further deter those repeat offenders who have got away with too much for too long, it should be a team effort. If you live or work in Erdington, or just want to help make a difference to our Town Centre, then please get in touch about joining [the Erdington BID] High Street Community Support Team.”
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless
Operation Fearless was launched in January 2025, bringing a dedicated team of 20 officers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour into Erdington Town Centre.
The initiative was supported by £880,000 from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, as allocated by the Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster – who has been a regular visitor to Erdington Town Centre, meeting with both businesses and the general public on the High Street.
Led by Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, the Operation Fearless team have made over 140 arrests [at the time of writing] and seized an array of contraband off the Erdington streets – including an arsenal of offensive weapons, and illegal drugs worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
As the Operation Fearless team start to hand over to Sgt Grove and the High Street police team, alongside the pre-existing Neighbourhood Police Team (NPT) that covers Erdington Town Centre, a WMP spokesperson confirmed: “The [Operation] Fearless team will continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained effort to reduce crime.”
Detective Superintendent Jim Munro added: “The new dedicated High Street team will be a constant presence in the area, and although Fearless is expanding to a new location – our Fearless officers will be using their impressive local and operational knowledge to support them.”
