Paulette Hamilton MP with police on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Three years ago, when I was first elected, I made a promise, to tackle the crime and antisocial behaviour plaguing Erdington High Street.
Today, I’m proud to report that Operation Fearless, launched in January with £880,000 in funding from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, is delivering incredible results.
At my latest High Street meeting, Inspector Shameem Ahmed provided a detailed update on multiple arrests and seizures – proof that our community’s persistence is paying off.
Traders who once lived in fear now speak of real transformation, something I saw firsthand during my walkabout with Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster and DS Jim Munro last week.
Paulette Hamilton MP with Inspector Shameem Ahmed at a meeting about crime on Erdington High Street, held at St Barnabas Church / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
But while we celebrate progress, we cannot ignore the recent knife attack in Kingstanding. My heart goes out to the victim, and I pray they make a speedy recovery.
As someone who has recently spoken in Parliament about rising knife crime and as an aunt whose own family has felt its devastating pain, I’m calling for action. That means tougher measures and longer-term, sustainable funding for initiatives like our Violence Reduction Partnership.
Beyond crime, as Chair of the Hospices APPG, I’m also fighting for dignity in dying. Places like John Taylor Hospice in Erdington provide incredible care, yet rely too heavily on charity. They deserve long-term funding, and I’m determined to keep pushing to make that happen.
Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott are stronger when we stand together. We’ve already shown what we can achieve, so let’s keep pushing forward.
Words by Erdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives
Cllr Robert Alden outside a mobile waste collection unit on Grange Road, Erdiington / Pic supplied by Cllr Alden
As we enter April, Erdington and Birmingham have been facing a bin strike for over three months due to the dispute between two parts of the Labour movement.
Across the City there have been hugely concerning scenes of dumped rubbish sometimes piled up to shoulder height, blocking pavements and carriageways, while the papers have reported that rats are growing as large as cats and spreading exponentially.
That’s why, while the Labour Council failed to lead, as the opposition the Local Conservatives published our plan to end the strike and clean up the city.
We also called on the Council to declare a public health emergency, to ask neighbouring councils for help clearing up the 21,000 tonnes of uncollected rubbish on the streets and we have offered as the opposition to join the gold command major incident board of the Council, putting residents first to help Labour end the crisis they created in Birmingham.
A massive thank you to local residents and everyone volunteering with Erdington Litter Busters and local friends groups helping to keep our area clean.
While press coverage around the world has highlighted rubbish issues in communities and at Mobile Collection sites across the city, Erdington’s recent visit passed with praise from the media for how calm and well-mannered it was and that there were no piles of dumped waste.
Once again, together as a community, we’ve shown why Erdington is such an amazing place to live.
Paulette Hamilton MP by the Houses of Parliament / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
The first duty of any government is to keep its citizens safe. That’s why I’m proud this Labour Government is increasing defence investment 2.5% of GDP by 2027, the biggest sustained boost since the Cold War.
This commitment strengthens national security and ensures we have the capabilities to protect the UK and our allies.
But security isn’t just about national defence, it’s about keeping our communities safe too. After 14 years of Conservative neglect, our armed forces are stretched thin, and crime and anti-social behaviour are rising. Undoing the damage of the past will take time, but Labour is committed to rebuilding Britain and delivering for our communities.
Locally, I took a firm stand against an HMO application on Mason Road, leading a campaign backed by 386 residents. Birmingham City Council rejected the application, sending a clear message that enough is enough.
HMOs bring increased crime, put pressure on local services, and undermine initiatives like Operation Fearless, which aims to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
I joined West Midlands Police for an all-out day on Erdington High Street. With a new Public Spaces Protection Order in place and Operation Fearless making an impact, traders and shoppers are seeing a real difference.
I also held a coffee morning in Kingstanding, where residents raised crime and anti-social behaviour as top concerns. I’ll keep working with the police and local partners to tackle these issues.
From community campaigns to coffee mornings, I will keep fighting for a safer Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors – as identified against each article – and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.
If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: [email protected]
Words by Erdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives
(l-r) Cllr Gareth Moore and Cllr Robert Alden campaiging against library closures / Pic supplied by Birmingham Conservatives
Thank you to everyone who signed our petition opposing the proposed new HMO on Mason Road, we’re delighted to confirm, following our campaign, the application has been refused by the Council.
I’ve also been pushing for the Council to take enforcement action against the new chicken shop that has opened without planning permission on Mason Road.
Cllr Gareth Moore and I have been continuing our push for the Council to clean up our streets. This month we took our Conservative plan for a cleaner city, and wider amendment, to the budget meeting.
The amendment, signed off as deliverable by Council Finance officers and Commissioners, would’ve kept refuse collections weekly, scrapped Labours ‘Rat Tax’, and increased the number of street cleaners – as well as separately keeping every library including Erdington open full time. Sadly, this was rejected by the Labour Councillors.
This month the Labour Council have announced that due to their bin strike, which is now five days a week, they are not starting garden waste collections and continue to not collect recycling. Their current advice on refuse bins is to leave it out if it is not collected on your normal collection day.
We have been calling for the Council to refund residents who have paid for garden waste collections. The Council has now agreed, and a refund can be requested on their website.
We’re posting all the latest updates we have on the strike on our Facebook page, so follow us there to stay up to date.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors – as identified against each article – and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.
If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: [email protected]
Urban Devotion Birmingham team photo outside Hope House / Image supplied by UDB
Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) is a Christian charity working in North East Birmingham, with a mission to empower young people and their families. Founded in 2003, and officially registered as a charity in 2005, UDB supports over 2,500 individuals each year.
The charity aims to help those it engages with to become confident, well-rounded individuals, while building strong and supportive relationships within the community.
It runs various programs, such as drop-in clubs, mentoring, therapeutic support, detached youth work, and educational services in schools. UBD also runs faith-based groups for those who want to explore spirituality, aiming to help young people become confident and well-rounded individuals.
Urban Devotion Birmingham in session at St Barnabas Church, Erdington / Image supplied by UDB
Urban Devotion Birmingham is based at Hope House, 148 Witton Lodge Road in Perry Common – but its services span across several areas of the community, including Pype Hayes, Stockland Green, and neighbouring areas.
One of UDB’s key vehicles for outreach is its Mobile Youth Venue – a converted van that travels to different locations in the community during the week. This mobile service makes youth programs more accessible to young people by meeting them where they live and spend their time.
Amy Heyes, Co-Founder of UBD, said: “Our work is about removing the obstacles that hold people back. The children and young people of Erdington are brilliant, and we love getting the opportunity to support them as they grow.”
Urban Devotion Bimringham in kayacking session / Image supplied by UDB
Amy added: “At UDB, we believe that everyone has something to contribute, and we want to encourage people to play their part – our work wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who are all central in helping to provide the services we do, to the local community.
“We welcome any one who’s interested in getting involved to stop by Hope House and say hello, our friendly team are always up for a chat.”
A parent, whose child attends many sessions at the charity, also told: “I don’t know what my boys would have done without UDB – they wouldn’t have had the experiences they have had here, without them.
“It’s a fun and inclusive environment for children and young people, especially to meet new people and make friends. It’s like a family here, and my boys love being a part of the UDB family.”
Urban Devotion Birmingham team next to Mobile Youth Venue / Image supplied by UDB
UDB’s focus is not just to provide services to the community. With a strong emphasis on empowerment from a young age and creating opportunities, the charity also works to ensure young people are playing an active role in shaping their futures.
Volunteers play an essential role in the charity’s work, from mentoring young people to helping run events and practical activities like transport or gardening.
Those who wish to support Urban Devotion Birmingham can also donate goods and help in spreading the word about their work.
For further information on Urban Devotion Birmingham and a calendar of its upcoming events and programmes, please visit www.urbandevotion.org or call 0121 350 9370.
Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.
If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]
Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) are thrilled to announce the upcoming Shaping Birmingham’s Future Together (SBFT) Marketplace Roadshow, coming directly to Perry Common Community Hall and delivered by WLCA.
This incredible community event is designed to bring vital local services and resources right to your doorstep. This event is perfect for everyone in the Erdington and North Birmingham community, whether you’re:
Seeking employment support
Looking for housing advice
Interested in health and wellbeing services
Wanting to get involved in community initiatives / volunteering
John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council said: “The Shaping Birmingham’s Future Together Marketplace Roadshows are a great opportunity for people to learn more about the services and support available from Birmingham City Council and a wide range of partner organisations and community groups.”
He added: “These events showcase our city at its very best.”
WLCA at Perry Common Community Hall / Image by Ed King
Event details Date: Wednesday, 26 February 2025 Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Location: Witton Lodge Community Association, Perry Common Community Hall, Witton Lodge, 87 Witton Lodge Road, Erdington, B23 5JD
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Members of Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club on group cycle ride / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club (CCC) is a local non-profit organisation that runs cycling activities and group sessions for people of all ages and abilities.
Affiliated with the national sports charity Cycling UK, Pype Hayes CCC has been providing cycling opportunities to people of all ages and abilities since August 2022. Previously called the Cobble Café/Easy Riders, the club works on a volunteer basis with members donating their time to support its activities.
With its primary Bike Hub based at Paget Primary School on Paget Road, the club now has a total of 116 members, with 50 actively participating in its ‘Learn to Pedal’ sessions which take place every Sunday at 10am.
Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club Bike Hub at Paget Primary School / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
The ‘Learn to Pedal’ programme is open to people of all age ranges, with the youngest participant being three years old and the oldest being 93. The sessions are designed to help individuals build confidence and develop basic cycling skills, with the option to progress to a Bikeability certification – in line with the government’s national cycle training programme.
Pype Hayes CCC welcomes people with varying levels of experience and the pace of learning is adapted to each person’s needs – also running ‘Led Rides’, providing opportunities for people to cycle together in a social, group environment.
The club has a second Bike Hub at the Witton Lodge Community Association Eco Hub on Witton Lakes, where additional ‘Led Rides’ take place weekly. These group rides usually include stops at local cafes, to give members a chance to socialise and to support Erdington’s local community spaces.
‘Mr Fix It’ providing bike repairs and maintanence / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
Outside of the group activities, Pype Hayes CCC lends bikes to people who do not own a bicycle but want to embrace a healthier and greener way of transport – allocating spare cycles from both Bike Hubs at Paget Primary School and Witton Lakes Eco Hub.
It also offers a servicing initiative called ‘Mr Fix It’, where local residents can access bike repairs and maintenance to ensure their bike is safe to use – encouraging more two wheel travel and allowing more people to participate in the club’s activities.
With support received through a grant from the National Lottery, Pype Hayes CCC has been able to expand its bike stock and improve essential equipment.
The funding has been significant in enabling the club to offer its wider range of services to the Pype Hayes community and neighbouring areas.
Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
Gareth Jones, National Standard Cycling Instructor at Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club, said: “Cycling is one of many great ways to get active and enjoy the outdoors, but it is also about supporting one another in the group and the wider community.
“It is very rewarding to see people overcome their fears by taking part and achieve something they did not think was possible at all. We are able to support anyone who wants to join in, learn, or ride socially with other people.”
He added: “We believe our club is unique, because people do not need to know how to pedal straight away – we encourage all of our members to take things slowly in the beginning and then learn at their own pace.
“We welcome people from many different backgrounds and with different abilities. All of the Bikeability instructors here are registered and are SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) trained too.”
Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.
If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]
Barclays Digital Van offering support and advice to local residents / Pic supplied by Barclays UK
The Pioneer Group are excited to welcome the Barclays Digital Van to the Castle Vale community, bringing free digital support and advice to residents across the estate.
Especially these days, it is increasingly important for everyone to have access to digital tools, whether it’s for job searches, staying in touch with family, or learning new skills. That’s why The Pioneer Group are working with Barclays to bring this service right to the doorstep of people living on Castle Vale.
The Barclays Digital Van is coming to Castle Vale on Wednesday, 26 February, offering essential digital support and guidance.
Join the team at 2 Renfrew Square, Birmingham, B35 6JT, from 10am to 1pm – to access free internet, digital skills training, and expert advice on using technology to stay connected, find job opportunities, and access online services.
What’s on offer at the Barclays Digital Van:
Employment Support – Help with CV building, job applications, and interview preparation.
Healthcare Access – Guidance on using telehealth services to connect with doctors.
Social Inclusion – Support to help residents stay in touch with loved ones online.
Free Internet Access – High-speed WiFi to assist with job searches, education, and more.
Digital Skills Training – Learn computer basics and improve online safety.
Tech Support – Get help with devices and troubleshooting issues.
The Pioneer Group are committed to making sure local residents have the tools they need to feel confident online.
Whether you’re just starting out or need extra support, many across the Castle Vale community can benefit from this fantastic service.
Compass Support and The Pioneer Group are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
(l-r) Paulette Hamilton MP with Andrew Goodacre of the British Independent Retailers Association on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
It’s always a pleasure to update you on the work I’m doing to make Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott even better places to live, work, and raise a family.
This month, I’ve been focused on standing up for our neighbourhoods. I have written to local residents about the proposed five-bed HMO on Mason Road, which could bring significant challenges to our community.
I will be objecting to the application in the strongest terms and urging the council to reject it. If you haven’t already, please sign my petition to put a stop to this.
I also joined Simon Foster, our Police and Crime Commissioner, on Erdington High Street to hear about the impact of Operation Fearless. This initiative has already led to major arrests and the seizure of drugs and weapons, making our high street safer.
Our community deserves to feel secure, and I’ll continue pushing for the resources needed to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour.
Supporting local businesses is also a priority. That’s why I recently met with Andrew Goodacre of the British Independent Retailers Association and walked along the High Street to discuss efforts to revitalise our town centre.
Our independent businesses are the backbone of our community, and I’ll keep working to ensure they thrive.
On a brighter note, I was delighted to join Marsh Hill Primary School in Stockland Green for the opening of their new security gates. It’s fantastic to see investment in school safety, ensuring children can learn and grow in a secure environment.
Local families working at the Community Garden / Image supplied by CET
The Community Environmental Trust (CET) was set up in the early 1990s as part of the wider Castle Vale regeneration project, which aimed to improve housing and create job opportunities for local people.
CET’s role was to focus on environmental issues and make sure they were addressed alongside other developments.
Today, CET remains active in Castle Vale, running a range of environmental programmes that get local residents involved in looking after green spaces and making the area more sustainable.
The Trust provides volunteering opportunities, education, and outdoor activities, helping people get more connected to their community.
Tending to vegetable planters at the Community Garden / Image supplied by CET
One of CET’s key projects is the Community Garden at the Castle Vale Allotments. The garden offers local residents a chance to learn about gardening and food-growing, while providing space for people to grow their own food and meet others.
CET also manages the Community Orchard in partnership with Castle Vale Allotments, Fruit and Nut Village, and Slow Food. The orchard has 29 fruit trees, including apples, pears, and plums, providing fresh produce for the community.
Alongside the gardening programmes, the charity hosts water sports sessions at a nearby canal, offering kayaking and bell-boating. Special sessions will be held over the February half term (18 – 21 February), with free kayaking at 12pm and bell-boating at 10am each day. These activities are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages.
Young people taking part in bell boat lesson / Photography credit to Tracy Fisher
Stuart Connolly, Paddle Sport Instructor at CET, said: “We think it’s really important to encourage people in the community, of all ages, to spend some time outside, away from screens, and really connect with the nature around them.”
He adds: “The water sport activities we run here offer that helping hand to people, by getting them out in the fresh air, and connecting with their neighbours and friends in the area – it’s also good to to meet new people, and build new friendships.”
A service user, who participates in CET’s water sports sessions, further told: “Due to lower body issues, I thought I could never get in and out of a boat. But now I’m absolutely enchanted, along with physical support from the staff at CET.”
Young people taking part in bell boat lesson / Photography credit to Tracy Fisher
They add: “The bell-boats cannot tip over or sink, and you really can’t fall out unless you’re doing something completely unadvisable, so it’s absolutely safe for everybody. On the boat, we just paddle and have a laugh.
“We also do litter picking. These are very community-minded activities, and I can’t recommend them enough. It’s good for the body, the soul, the spirit, and the environment.”
Through its work, CET continues to have an impact on both the local environment and the community. By offering opportunities for volunteering, outdoor activities, and environmental care, CET plays a role in building a stronger, more connected community in Castle Vale.
For more on the CET water sports activities contact Stuart Connolly at [email protected]
For all other CET enquiries contact Alicia Grande at [email protected]
Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.
If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]
