Category: Castle Vale Local

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Birmingham United FC’s First Team move home matches to Castle Vale Stadium

(l-r) Representatives from Birmingham United FC and Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words supplied by The Pioneer Group

Birmingham United FC is proud to announce a major milestone in the club’s journey — the first team will now play its home fixtures at Castle Vale Stadium, marking the first time since adopting the name Birmingham United that the senior side will compete within the city of Birmingham itself.

This move represents more than just a change of venue — it is a homecoming, a statement of intent, and a foundation for further impact and growth.

Founded with the goal of creating opportunities for talented young footballers across Central Birmingham, Birmingham United FC has built a reputation for developing players both on and off the pitch.

Sign outside Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph by Ed King

The relocation of the first team to Castle Vale aligns with the club’s mission to be based at the heart of the Birmingham footballing community and to use sport as a tool for positive change.

“Playing in Birmingham has always been a key goal for us,” said Rajab Noor, Birmingham United FC Chairman.

He adds: “Castle Vale Stadium offers fantastic facilities and a passionate local community. We’re excited not only to bring semi-professional football to the area but also to support the next generation of players through new grassroots and youth initiatives.”

The club intends to work closely with The Pioneer Group – who own and operate Castle Vale Stadium – and other local stakeholders in and around Castle Vale to create accessible football pathways for children and young people.

Public attending football match at Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph by Ed King

Plans are already underway to expand Birmingham United’s grassroots programme — developing new youth teams, delivering coaching sessions, and supporting initiatives that harness the positive social impact of sport.

A spokesperson for the local football club added: “Football has the power to transform the lives of young people, unite communities together and remedy society’s greatest inequalities.

“By basing ourselves in Castle Vale, we feel well-placed to have a significant positive impact on young people across the area.”

As Birmingham United FC embarks on this exciting new chapter, the club invites local residents, fans, and supporters to join them at Castle Vale Stadium and be part of a growing movement that champions opportunity, ambition, and community spirit.

Irfan Mehboob, The Pioneer Group’s Head of Community Facilities, told: “It’s fantastic to have Birmingham United FC hosting their home games here at Castle Vale Stadium. The stadium remains an integral part of our community, and we’re delighted to see more people making use of this great facility.”

He added: “Since investing in the stadium, we hope even more people will take advantage of the excellent facilities we have here.”

For more on Birmingham United FC and links to the club’s social media visit: www.linktr.ee/bhamutd

For more on Castle Vale Stadium visit: www.castlevalestadium.co.uk

For more from The Pioneer Group visit: www.pioneergroup.org.uk

The Pioneer Group is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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OPINION: A View from the Vale – a message from Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin

Councillor Ray Goodwing (Castle Vale, Labour) on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour Group

Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin

(**Ed’s note… this column was first published on Friday 17 October in the Erdington Local print edition.)

There is a song for that.

September is always a month of change — the end of summer, the start of something new, and a reminder that progress never stands still in Castle Vale. This month, we’ve seen that spirit in action across our community.

We began with another Mobile Tip Truck event, tackling fly-tipping and helping residents keep our streets clean and tidy. It’s been inspiring to see so many people come together with real pride in the Vale.

When we work side by side, we don’t just improve our environment — we strengthen our community.

Community safety has remained a top priority. Following reports of antisocial behaviour and off-road biking, I’ve been meeting with local police, housing officers, and partners to ensure your concerns are heard. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own neighbourhood, and I’ll keep pushing for greater visibility, faster responses, and stronger enforcement.

There’s also positive news on the horizon: the rebuilding of our parks will begin shortly. These green spaces mean a lot to families, children, and older residents alike — places to relax, play, and connect.

It’s taken time and persistence to get here, but it’s wonderful to see our shared efforts turning into real investment for the future.

As autumn settles in, I’m reminded of what makes Castle Vale special — determination, unity, and hope. Whatever challenges come our way, we’ll face them together. Because here on the Vale, there really is a song for that.

For more on Cllr Ray Goodwin www.facebook.com/thisiscastlevale

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OPINION: A View from the Vale – a message from Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin

Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin – standing on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour

Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin

This past month in Castle Vale has been one of the busiest I can remember, but also one of the most rewarding. Every week has reminded me just how special our estate is, and how lucky I am to serve such an incredible community.

At the heart of my work has been the drive to make Castle Vale cleaner and greener. From joining residents at community litter picks to working with partners on environmental projects, I’ve seen the pride people take in their neighbourhood. That same determination is guiding our efforts to tackle rising energy costs, as I explore ways we can help residents reduce bills and make homes more sustainable.

One of the highlights of the month was the Castle Vale Community Festival. It was fantastic to see families, neighbours, and friends coming together to celebrate what makes this estate unique – its energy, diversity, and spirit of togetherness. Events like this show Castle Vale at its very best.

We’ve also taken time to reflect and remember, particularly through the commemoration of VJ Day. Standing alongside residents to honour those who served was humbling, and it reminded me how important it is to inspire the next generation of leaders here in Castle Vale.

It’s been a busy month, but if anything, the pace is only increasing. I know big things are coming for our community, and I’m determined to keep putting Castle Vale first – always.

For more on Cllr Ray Goodwin www.facebook.com/thisiscastlevale

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NEWS: Castle Vale Town FC win first game of the season 4-0

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

For more on Castle Vale Town FC visit www.castlevalefc.clupik.app

For more on Castle Vale Stadium visit www.castlevalestadium.co.uk

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OPINION: A View from the Vale – a message from Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin

Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin – standing on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour

Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin

As Councillor for Castle Vale, I’ve been proud to lead efforts that are making a real difference in our community. One of the most visible changes is the regeneration of local play areas—turning tired, underused spaces into vibrant, safe places where children and families can come together.

These improvements aren’t just cosmetic; they’re about creating opportunities for play, connection, and pride in Castle Vale.

I have also taken strong action against fly-tipping, which has long been a concern for residents. Through targeted clean-up operations, better reporting systems, and community engagement, we’re tackling the issue head-on.

It’s about restoring respect for our shared spaces and making Castle Vale a cleaner, more welcoming place for everyone.

But none of this would be possible without the incredible volunteers who give their time and energy to support these efforts. From litter picks to helping with play area projects, their commitment is inspiring.

They are the heartbeat of Castle Vale – proof that when we work together, we can achieve great things.

I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, and even more excited about what’s ahead. Castle Vale is a community full of potential, and together, we’re building a brighter, cleaner, and more connected future.

I have promised to always put Castle Vale first which is what I will always do.

For more on Cllr Ray Goodwin www.facebook.com/thisiscastlevale

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OPINION: A View from the Vale – a message from Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin

Cllr Ray Goodwin on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour

Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been reminded—again and again—why I’m so proud to represent Castle Vale.

Our community is full of everyday heroes. From the volunteers in our foodbanks, to the youth workers creating safe spaces, to the neighbours looking out for one another – you are the heartbeat of this estate. It’s not about politics, it’s about people.

I’ve been out and about, listening to your concerns and working with local partners to tackle the things that matter most: rising living costs, mental health support, youth engagement, and the need for decent, affordable housing. One issue I know has been a major concern is dangerous street racing.

Thanks to pressure from residents and our work alongside West Midlands Police and the City Council, we’ve have seen enforcement action take place.

I’ve also raised the issue directly with highways and community safety teams to push for longer-term solutions – because our roads should be safe for everyone, day and night.

I want to thank everyone who’s taken time to speak with me at community events, clean-up days, forums, or even just out on the street. Your voices guide the work I do. I’m not here to make promises I can’t keep – I’m here to listen, to act, and to stand alongside you.

Castle Vale is strong because you are strong. And as your councillor, I’ll continue doing everything I can to support a community that believes in fairness, compassion, and opportunity for all.

We are Castle Vale – and together, we are stronger.

For more on Cllr Ray Goodwin www.facebook.com/thisiscastlevale

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NEWS: Two men from Yardley charged with firearms offences following alleged shooting at Kenrick Croft

The entrance to Kenrick Croft from Cadbury Road, on the Castle Vale estate / Image taken from Google Maps

Words by Ed King

Two men from the Yardley constituency have been charged with firearms offences and other crimes, following an alleged shooting at Kenrick Croft, Castle Vale, on the morning of Sunday 1 June.

In a statement issued by West Midlands Police (WMP), following an investigation after the incident was reported in the early hours, the force confirmed: “Detectives from our Major Crime Unit have now charged Elliot Foley, aged 40, and Abid Khan, 43, with violent disorder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.”

Castle Vale Local pressed the police to confirm the home addresses given by those charged, with a WMP spokesperson quickly confirming Elliot Foley was from Stoney Lane and Abid Khan was from Berkeley Road.

Both addresses are from the Yardley constituency in Birmingham and are about a 15 minute drive from Kenrick Croft on the Castle Vale estate.

Blue and white police tape / Photograph by Ed King

West Midlands Police further confirmed: “The disorder happened on Kenrick Croft, Castle Vale, at around 2am on Sunday.

“As well as the firearm, we recovered a quantity of shotgun ammunition, a number of bullets and a knuckle duster from an address in Birmingham as part of the investigation following the disorder.

“[Abid] Khan has also been charged with possession of prohibited weapon, possession of ammunition without a certificate and possession of an offensive weapon in a private place.

“[Elliot] Foley has also been charged with assault by beating of a police officer. Both were remanded in custody to appear before city magistrates today (Tuesday).”

Castle Vale statue by Chivenor Primary School / Photograph by Ed King

West Midlands Police also stated that a 41 year old woman had been treated for “shotgun injuries”, and whilst being arrested had been released on bail without charge.

Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin (Labour) was also quick on the scene following the reports made on Sunday morning, and has promised to establish a “multi agency taskforce” to stand up to crime on the estate.

Soon after another violent incident on Castle Vale last year, were four men were seen brandishing machetes and residents reported gunfire, Cllr Goodwin organised a Community Crime and Safety Summit at Greenwood Academy – bringing the Police and Crime Commissioner to address concerns from people across the estate.

After the most recent statement from West Midlands Police regarding the Kenrick Croft arrests, Cllr Goodwin told Castle Vale Local: “Having received an update from West Midlands Police confirming the two individuals charged with firearms offensives were not from Castle Vale, I am relieved to know those currently in custody are not from our estate.”

“But we must double down and do everything we can to protect this amazing community from these acts of violence – which have no place on Castle Vale.”

Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin / Photgraph supplied by Birmingham Labour

He added: “Whether it was an isolated incident or not, it has reportedly involved a firearm and people have been charged with intent to endanger life. This is not acceptable.”

“I will not rest, and as previously promised I will be organising a muti agency taskforce to look at what more can be done to protect our residents and the amazing Castle Vale community moving forward.”

West Midlands Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing and officers have been “examining CCTV and mobile phone footage, and speaking to witnesses”.

Police have asked anyone with information that may be able to support their investigation to contact them by calling 101 and quoting log 446 of 1 June.

Alternatively, people can contact the West Midlands Police via the Live Chat facility at www.westmidlands.police.uk or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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NEWS: Arrests made after police start investigation following shots fired on Kenrick Croft in Castle Vale

The entrance to Kendrick Croft from Cadbury Road, on the Castle Vale estate / Image taken from Google Maps

Words by Tracy Fisher and Ed King

West Midlands Police have arrested three people, after starting an investigation into reports of shots being fired in Kenrick Croft on Castle Vale in the early hours of Sunday morning.

According to local residents and people who were in the area at the time, an altercation occurred on the street in the early hours – followed by a car arriving at the scene, and a man releasing “three or four” gunshots.

After the shots were fired, according to local residents the car sped off but got lost in the roads that connect the Kendrick Croft to the wider estate – raising question that those involved were not familiar with Castle Vale.

Blue and white police tape / Photograph by Ed King

Emergency services attended the scene, with local residents celebrating the police for arriving “very quickly” after the incident was reported.

Police immediately began knocking on doors and gathering eyewitness accounts and local knowledge about the incident, with a forensic team arriving later and cordoning off Kendrick Croft whilst the began searching for clues.

Blue and white police tape cordoned off Kendrick Croft until mid morning on Sunday 1 June, with cars being blocked from entering or exiting the roads whilst the police investigation was underway.

West Midlands Police have been able to confirm that no one was serious injured in the attack, and that three individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin was also quick to arrive at the scene, to support both investigating officers and the local community, and has committed to establishing a special task force to challenge violent crime on the estate.

Police cars parked on Farnborough Road / Photograph taken by Ed King

After the incident, a spokesperson form West Midlands police told: “We’re investigating after disorder where gunshots were fired in Kenrick Croft, Castle Vale, at around 2am today (1 June).

“It’s understood a group were involved in a melee, but no-one was present when officers arrived. At this stage, no-one is understood to have sustained gunshot injuries.”

They added: “Following enquiries we later arrested three people on suspicion of being connected to the disorder.

“A 40-year-old man and 41-year-old woman have been detained on suspicion of violent disorder and possession of a firearm. They’re currently in custody for questioning.”

“Another man, aged 43, has also been arrested on suspicion of the same offences. He’s currently in hospital and will be questioned in due course.

“We’re carrying out extensive enquiries in and around the area to establish the full circumstances and who was involved. We’ve also stepped up reassurance patrols.”

Councillor Ray Goodwin further told Castle Vale Local: ““I am concerned to hear from local residents this morning there was an incident in Avery Croft and Kendrick Croft – where it seems firearms where discharged.

“I can confirm forensics have been at the scene and West Midlands Police are working on an investigation.

“I am pleased that no one has been seriously injured. However, we must double down on dealing with the perpetrators of crime and I will be working with all agencies to set up a task force – to look at what has happened, and how we can pull in resources to support the community and to stop these crimes from happening again.”

Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin / Photgraph supplied by Birmingham Labour

He added: “Castle Vale is an amazing community; one I am proud to be a part of and proud to represent. But isolated incidents like this put Castle Vale in the news for the wrong reasons.

“I am sorry the wider community – who have done nothing wrong – and are pulled into the wrongdoing by people who, from what I hear in this incident, don’t live on the estate.

“I will do everything in my power to stop these issues from happening again and to support the amazing Castle Vale community.”

West Midlands Police have asked anyone with information that may be able to support their investigation to contact them by calling 101 and quoting log 446 of 1/6/25.

Alternatively, people can contact the police via the Live Chat facility on the West Midlands Police website at www.westmidlands.police.uk

 

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OPINION: A View from the Vale – a message from Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin

Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour

Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin

Castle Vale and the armed forces are inextricably linked; if it wasn’t for the Spitfire where we would be. Built at RAF Castle Bromwich, the planes took off from the runways, which as I write is this very special piece where I am based on Castle Vale.

Everywhere you go on the estate you sense the history and importance of the impact this community had – most of the streets and roads are named after either people or places that are stepped in history. For example: Spitfire Way Lancaster Drive, Lofthouse Close.

There are even rumours of Spitfires being buried under Farnborough Fields.

So, it was right and proper that we did something special for VE day and raised a flag in Centre Park with the ‘Last Post’ playing. We have a war memorial which is located behind a fence in St Cuthberts church. I am wondering if this is the right place for this.

More importantly, a memorial that celebrates our veterans should be located somewhere also.

Listening to residents, I think the memorial should be located by the flagpole in Centre Park and we name it the ‘Memorial Park’ or ‘Veterans Corner’. I am not sure of the logistics of this, but it is worth exploring.

As Churchill said: “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.”

For more on Cllr Ray Goodwin www.facebook.com/thisiscastlevale

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Hearing from our tenants to help build a better community across Castle Vale

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

Simon Wilson, CEO of The Pioneer Group / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

It feels like we’re constantly being asked for feedback – on everything from a takeaway to our last taxi ride. Surveys seem to be everywhere!

We also ask questions about the services we provide. But unlike a big business trying to make more sales, we’re a not-for-profit organisation. Every penny of rent we receive is reinvested into our services and tenants’ homes.

We want to know if we’re doing a good job. So, if you’ve had a repair done or new windows fitted, you might be asked to complete a short survey.

We know we don’t always get things right, and your feedback helps us improve. Of course, if you’d rather not take part, you can opt out – but we hope you won’t, because we really do listen and act on what you tell us.

Beyond service feedback, we’re also collecting Tenant Profile Information. That might sound a bit technical, but it’s simply about understanding our tenants’ needs better.

For example, if we don’t know you have a disability (and some disabilities aren’t visible), we might miss the opportunity to provide an even better service to meet your needs. We also ask about things like age and ethnicity to ensure we’re designing services that are fair and inclusive for everyone.

In the coming weeks, as a Pioneer resident, you’ll have the opportunity to share your thoughts with us. Your feedback will help us improve our services.

Plus, you could win one of two £50 Amazon gift vouchers! Complete the survey for a chance to enter the prize draw.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

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