Tag: Birmingham City Council

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NEWS: Free Community Meal and ‘design your own Christmas decoration’ workshop at Oikos Café on Thursday 27 November

Words by Ed King

On Tuesday 27 November, Oikos Café opens its doors and invites all Erdington locals to another free Community Meal – cooked and served by volunteers from Oikos Church.

Doors at the High Street hotspot open at 5pm, with the Community Meal continuing until 6:30 – providing local families and individuals a hearty hot meal and a chance to socialise in the café.

Held on the third Thursday of every month, the Oikos Community Meal is a lively and popular event that attracts people from all over Erdington.

Free Community Meal at Oikos Cafe on Erdington High Street / Photograph supplied by Oikos Cafe

Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) will also be setting up a couple of stalls outside the front of Oikos Café on Thursday 27 November, from 4:30pm, giving away a few special Christmas treats and free hot drinks.

Erdington BID will also be kicking off a series of festive arts and crafts workshops on Thursday, where young people and locals can design their own Christmas decoration – with all materials will provided by Erdington BID.

The unique and handcrafted decorations can then be hung up and displayed up Erdington High Street on Saturday 20 December – ahead of a special Christmas lantern parade, organised by Erdington BID, which will usher in the yuletide and Winter solstice.

More ‘design your own Christmas decoration’ workshops will be held on Saturday 6, Saturday 13, and Saturday 20 December – alongside the Santa’s Grotto and Winter Warmer events, in conjunction with Erdington Rotary Club, coming to Erdington High Street on the run up to Christmas Day.

Erdington High Street’s Christmas lights will also be switched on at 5:30pm on Saturday 6 December – with Erdington Ward Councillors Robert Alden and Gather Moore joining Santa to officially illuminate the festive season in Erdington Town Centre.

A spokesperson for Erdington BID told: “We are officially kicking off our Christmas programme by supporting the fabulous Oikos Community Meal this Thursday [27 November], and giving away some free Christmas treats and hot drinks outside Oikos Café.

“Come down, say hello, and treat yourself to a hot chocolate and mince pie on us.”

They added: “And why not design your own Christmas decoration whilst you’re with us – which can then be hung up on the High Street on 20 December. We’d love to see everyone’s personal decorations on display this Christmas, showing some love for the local community and celebrating the spirit of the season.

“We really hope you can join us at Oikos or any of our Winter Warmer events, on Erdington High Street every Saturday across December – up to Christmas Day.”

The design your own Christmas decoration workshops, Santa’s Grotto, and Winter Warmer events are being organised as part of Erdington BID’s LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY campaign, to celebrate Erdington Town Centre and encourage more positive engagement on the High Street.

LOVE YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY projects are part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with support from Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority.

For more on Oikos Café visit www.oikoscafe.co.uk

For more on Erdington Business Improvement District visit www.erdingtonhighstreet.co.uk

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Erdington mourns the passing of local multi-media and mural artist Bunny Bread

Bunny Bread painiting Louvina Moses mural on Coton Lane, Erdington / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

Words by Ed King

Erdington’s creative and wider community have been reeling from the shocking loss of one of their most cherished members, and a man whose murals and paintings brought joy to so many.

Bunny Bread (Rudel James – aka Create Not Destroy) passed away in late October from a surprise and fatal heart attack.

Erdington resident and multi-media artist – with talents in photography, videography, aerosol art, illustration, music, and murals – Bunny Bread began his creative journey in the mid 1980’s.

Skilled in capturing the characters he saw in the world around him, Bunny’s work represents a beautiful gallery of creativity and community, from musicians and performers to the individuals that shine their light on the everyday streets.

Bunny Bread’s mural of Louvina Moses on Coton Lane, Erdington / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

In Erdington, one of Bunny’s best loved pieces is the large mural of Louvina Moses, on Coton Lane – just off Erdington High Street.

The piece was commissioned as part of the ‘Queens of the Commonwealth’ programme – supporting a special documentary celebrating 22 women who migrated to the UK from Commonwealth countries, produced ahead of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in 2022.

When interviewed by Erdington Local in October 2022, Bunny told: “I spent as much time on the ground chatting to people than I did up the ladder painting. People were so interested what I was doing, normally they would walk past me without giving me a second glance but when I start painting murals people are suddenly interested.”

He added: “There is a real appetite for art in Erdington, through our [Artists Conversations] group we know there is talent in the area and art can make a difference. I want art to become part of Erdington, like how the murals and art really are part of Brixton; there is no reason why Erdington cannot be the Brixton of Birmingham.”

Bunny Bread mural / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

Following the news of his death, messages of love and condolences flooded social media.

The Erdington based Birmz is Grime collective posted: “Great loss to this world. Rest in peace Bunny. Thank you for leaving the world a bit more brighter. Was lucky enough to call this guy a friend.”

Lincoln Moses MBE, son of Louvina Moses, expressed his “regret to announce the passing of Bunny, the esteemed graffiti artist” who painted the widely loved portrait of his mother.

Co-founder of Erdington Litter Busters (ELB), Dawn Edwards, expressed the local community group’s “sincere condolences”, and praised “this very talented and thoughtful man who loved working with and in the community”.

Bunny had been commissioned by ELB to paint a mural celebrating the local volunteer community, situated on Minstead Road.

Extended family of Louvina Moses pose for group photo in front of her mural, painted by Bunny Bread, on Coton Lane, Erdington / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

Erdington Arts Forum also dedicated part of their November Evening of Creativity (EoC) showcase to Bunny Bread, at Oikos Café on Friday 21 November.

EoC co-founder, Claire Marshall, who was working with Bunny on a three part art installation at the Peddimore development in Sutton Coldfield, told: “Rudel James (Bunny Bread) of Create Not Destroy was one of the most incredible human beings.”

She added: “He created his best work from capturing the essence of a person or place and amplifying the beauty. It’s such a loss to not have more of his creativity, and the work he leaves behind is a gift for our communities.”

For more on Bunny Bread visit www.createnotdestroy.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 News desk at: [email protected]

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

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

Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin

October and November have been months of reflection, change, and community spirit in Castle Vale. As we move from autumn into winter, we’ve continued to see that spirit of unity and progress shine.

October kicked off with another successful Mobile Tip Truck event, helping residents tackle fly-tipping and keep our streets clean.

It’s always inspiring to see so many people come together, showing real pride in our community. When we work side by side, we not only improve our environment but strengthen our connections.

Community safety remains a priority. Following concerns about antisocial behaviour and off-road biking, I’ve been working closely with local police, housing officers, and partners to ensure everyone feels safe.

I’ll continue pushing for quicker responses and stronger enforcement.

Exciting news: the rebuilding of our parks will soon begin. These green spaces are vital to families, children, and older residents alike, offering places to relax and connect.

(l-r) Cllr Ray Goodwin and local veteran raise ‘Lest We Forget’ flag in Centre Park on Remembrance Day / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

On Remembrance Sunday we attended the Remembrance Day service at St. Cuthbert’s Church, which bought the community together, and at 11:00am on the eleventh month we stood together as a community to raise the flag and honour those who served and sacrificed.

It was a meaningful moment of reflection and unity.

As the festive season approaches, we look forward to the Christmas tree light switch-on and supporting the Christmas Toy Appeal. Together, we’ll ensure that every child in the Vale has something special to look forward to.

Castle Vale is a place of determination, unity, and hope. Together, we’ll face whatever comes next.

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

 

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OPINION: A message from Kingstanding Councillor Clifton Welch

(l-r) Alex Richards and Cllr Clifton Welch at Remembrance Sunday service and parade / Photograph supplied by Cllr Welch

Words by Cllr Clifton Welch

Hello, Alex Richards (Conservative Local Campaigner) and I were both so proud to attend the Kingstanding Remembrance Service and Parade on 9 November.

The Scouts, Guides, Cubs and Beavers did Kingstanding proud with their parade and residents turned out in large numbers to support a very important event that is at the very heart of Kingstanding community. I was so honoured to have attended.

Following on from last month’s news that Kingstanding will be getting £20 million pounds of investment over 10 years, I received my first formal briefing on 6 November. It’s very early days but what is now known is the following:

  • The first £2 million becomes available in April 2027
  • In early 2026 a shadow committee will be set up of residents and politicians, which later in 2026 will become the formal organising committee that will oversee the planning and authority to spend the funds.
  • In early January 2026 council officials will walk around the ward with me to get better understanding of the issues facing residents.
  • Project leader will attend my next Kingstanding Ward Meeting on 14 January 2026 to give residents full update.

Obviously, I will keep residents fully updated in future editions of this newspaper and via my leaflets and Facebook page.

At end of October, I was invited to opening of Concord Club new outdoor sports facilities in Aston as a team of Kingstanding school girls were taking part. The excellent facilities mirror exactly the sports facilities we have in Kingstanding at the excellent 601 Club.

Thank you, Clifton.

To contact Kingstanding Cllr Clifton Welch email [email protected]

For more from Kingstanding Councillor Clifton Welch and local campaigner Alex Richards visit www.facebook.com/KingstandingConservatives

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Paulette Hamilton MP at Pype Hayes Lighthouse Church Remembrance Sunday service / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

This month, we paused to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. It was an honour to join Pype Hayes Lighthouse Church for their Remembrance Sunday service and Abbey Catholic Primary School for Armistice Day. We will remember them.

One of the biggest concerns residents raise with me is the out-of-control spread of HMOs. Unlike the Conservatives, who have allowed this problem to worsen, I have been relentlessly campaigning to stop inappropriate HMO applications.

Recently, in Gravelly Hill, I have been campaigning against a proposal to convert a family home into a 9-bed HMO. This is part of my ongoing mission to oppose such plans, and I am proud that, by working together, we have successfully challenged every single HMO application I have campaigned against so far.

Paulette Hamilton MP at Black Histry Month event / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

It was a pleasure to host our second annual Black History Month event in Erdington. We welcomed a wonderfully diverse audience from across our communities, coming together to celebrate our shared ambition for a more just and equal society.

Many of you have also been in touch, deeply concerned about family and relatives in the Caribbean affected by the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

As someone with Jamaican roots, I share these concerns and understand the anxiety. In my role, I have been working closely with the Foreign Office and local community members to support British nationals and ensure vital aid reaches the region, and I will continue this work.

I remain committed to fighting for a better Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.

For more on Paulette Hamilton MP for Erdington visit www.paulettehamilton.org

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OPINION: Erdington Cllr Robert Alden, Leader of Birmingham Conservatives

Cllr Alden taking part on local community gardening / Photograph supplied by Cllr Alden

Words by Erdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives

Cllr Gareth Moore and I have been continuing to push the Council to back our plan to end the bin strike, balance the Council’s books and clean up the city.

Locally we have been continuing work with partners to try and secure investment into the High Street, getting dumped rubbish cleared, like the recent rubbish dumped overnight in the car park at Rookery Park and planting daffodils to help ensure Erdington is looking bright in the new year.

This includes on the grass verge at the junction of Arthur Road, Moor End Lane and Holly Lane.

Across Erdington we are really fortunate to have wonderful community groups like Erdington Litter Busters who do so much work maintaining and enhancing green spaces, including in this location and the central reservation on Sutton New Road.

Cllr Moore at St Barnabas Church for Remembrance Sunday service / Photograph supplied by Cllr Alden

As we do every year, earlier this month we also joined residents at St Barnabas Church for the Remembrance Sunday service and to lay a wreath in memory of those gave their everything so we may live free.

Now more than ever we must remember what they fought for and ensure their sacrifice was not in vain and is not forgotten. It was a moving service as always and thank you to the church for hosting and local schools for the events they did to explain Remembrance Day to their school kids.

With Christmas approaching we wish everyone in Erdington a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous new year!

For more from Erdington’s Councillor Robert Alden and Councillor Gareth Jones visit www.facebook.com/ErdingtonNews

 

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: “The heart of this community” – beloved Slade Road shopkeepers retire after near 50 years of serving Stockland Green

(l-r) Rajinder and Ashok Kumar cutting the cake at their retirement celebration / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

Words by Nicola Murray

For nearly five decades, Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road in Stockland Green has been more than a shop, it has been “the heart of this community”- as told by one longstanding customer.

As the established owners and operators Ashok and Rajinder Kumar retire this autumn, after 47 years of dedicated service, the neighbourhood reflects on the impact the beloved couple have had far beyond the checkout counter.

Since opening their independent supermarket and greengrocers, the Kumars have stood as cornerstones of the Stockland Green community, building relationships that stretch across families.

Outside of Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road, Stockland Green / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

“My parents have seen generations come and go in the shop,” their daughter Rena reflected. “They have loved being a part of the community and seeing their customers have children and grandchildren… they find it very endearing that the children call them ‘Auntie’ and ‘Uncle’.”

Throughout their near 50 year tenure, the Kumars often donated both their time and resources to many causes over the years – the couple were highly active in the community, supporting local initiatives and offering both their time and resources wherever needed.

When Stockland Green needed support, as well as groceries, they always found a way to lend a helping hand – including preparing meals for local soup kitchens, donating to Macmillan Coffee Mornings at the local Methodist Church, supplying food and drinks for community events, and many more acts of support and charity.

Inside of Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road, Stockland Green / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

Situated across the road from Stockland Green School, the couple supported teachers who went on strike by providing them with drinks on the picket line. During the Covid pandemic, the kept their shop operating for housebound customers who were reliant on regular grocery deliveries – providing a literal lifeline for those in isolation during the lockdowns.

Their active outreach work cemented them as a firm fixture in the local area, building them a family of friends as well as customers across the wider Stockland Green community. Former residents of Stockland Green would often come back to Slade Road, not just to shop but to visit Ashok and Rajinder.

After the announcement of their retirement, many friends and customers alike rallied round to wish the couple well – and to say how their absence will be felt in the community.

“They will be sorely missed,” told one long term customer ahead of the Kumar’s retirement celebration, “they’ve been the heart of this neighbourhood.”

Another expressed how they were “sad we will not be seeing your lovely smile” and how they’re “going to miss you guys.”

Dholok drum players and public outside of Ashok Supermarket during retirement celebration / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

An official retirement party was held for Ashok and Rajinder Kumar in Stockland Green on Wednesday 1 October, where many in the community gathered to celebrate the retirement of the couple – and see them hand over the keys the next generation, who will be keeping Ashok Supermarket open for business on Slade Road.

Ashok and Rajinder received widespread well wishes from local residents, friends, and family members, which is a testament to their impact, and extended their sincere thanks to all explaining, “It’s been an honour to serve this community.”

Rajinder herself added, “It’s never just been a business. It’s been a way to serve, connect, and grow with the people around us.”

Ashok Supermarket is located at 517 Slade Road, Stockland Green.

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 or local resident anywhere in the Erdington constituency, then we want to hear from you. Please email our Community News desk at: [email protected]

 

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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 message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

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

I am proud to share some fantastic news for our community. After months of campaigning, we have secured £20 million of long-term investment for Kingstanding through Labour’s Plan for Neighbourhoods.

This means £2 million a year for the next decade, going directly into the priorities that matter most to local people, whether that’s improving facilities, supporting community groups, creating opportunities for young people, or making our streets safer, cleaner, and stronger.

When I was elected, I promised to fight for investment after the Conservatives snubbed us with the Levelling Up Fund – twice.

Having already secured nearly £1 million for Operation Fearless in Erdington, I was determined that our area would not be overlooked again. This £20 million is the result of that fight, and today, we can proudly say our persistence has paid off.

But the real work starts now. The most important question is, how should this money be spent?

I want Kingstanding residents to lead the way so we can shape this investment around our community’s real needs. Whether it’s upgrading play areas, tackling anti-social behaviour, backing small businesses, this must be your decision.

For too long, communities like ours have been ignored. Labour is changing that by giving power back to local people. This £20 million is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and I will work side by side with you to ensure your priorities lead the way.

This is our chance to rebuild pride, tackle long-standing challenges, and create better opportunities for the next generation.

For more on Paulette Hamilton MP for Erdington visit www.paulettehamilton.org

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OPINION: Erdington Cllr Robert Alden, Leader of Birmingham Conservatives

Cllr Robert Alden with local residents on Spring Lane / Photograph supplied by Cllr Robert Alden

Words by Erdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives

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

Cllr Gareth Moore and I have been working with residents and the police to tackle speeding and dangerous driving in the Spring Lane area during the year.

Last month we gathered a petition calling on the City Council to fund a raised crossing and speed bumps to slow down cars racing, as well as bollards on the corner of Fern Road to prevent people blocking visibility at the junction.

Thank you to everyone who has signed, backing the campaign. We’ve also been supporting local speed watches with the Police in the area.

This month we’ve met with the officers from West Midlands Police following our letter to the Chief Constable demanding the reopening of the front desk at Erdington Police Station.

We put forward our case for why we feel it is vital to back up the initial success of Operation Fearless and extra police officers locally by now reopening our much needed Front Desk. We will continue to put the case in the coming weeks and months.

We’ve continued to challenge the Council about the ridiculous case of the broken street lights on Wesley Road. The road itself is a private unadopted road. Over the last year all the street lights on the road have broken and the Council refuse to fix them.

Despite the lights having Council asset tags and electric vehicles chargers attached to them installed by the Council!

Hopefully the Council will finally see the light and fix them!

For more from Erdington’s Councillor Robert Alden and Councillor Gareth Jones visit www.facebook.com/ErdingtonNews