Tag: Erdington

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NEWS: Erdington man jailed for over five years after pleading guilty to Chudleigh Rd shooting

Words by Ed King

Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

An Erdington man has been jailed for over five years after pleading guilty to charges related to a shooting on Chudleigh Road in July 2024.

Desie Dalton-Byrne, who lives on Chudleigh Road, received his sentence at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 6 March – with West Midlands Police now releasing more details of the case.

Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to charges including possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition for a firearm without a certificate.

Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

The most serious of the charges faced by Dalton-Byrne, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, could have seen him sentenced to a decade behind bars for that crime alone.

The other charges could also have carried jail time of between 5-10 years each – as directed by the sentencing guidelines from the Crown Prosecution Service.

Firearm found on Low Wood Road during investigation of shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

The 21-year-old was arrested in September 2024 after police scoured CCTV from across the area and talked to witness.

Chudleigh Road sits between Reservoir Road and Marsh Lane – two busy thoroughfares connecting Erdington Town Centre to Stockland Green – with the firearm eventually retrieved from a garden on neighbouring Low Wood Road.

From the evidence gathered by investigating officers, Dalton-Byrne can be seen on CCTV brandishing a weapon – with reports stating shots were fired at a group of people on Chudleigh Road at around 6:30pm.

Dressed in what appears to be a black tracksuit with white trims, he can be seen leaving the driver’s side of a parked vehicle, before waving the gun above his head, then aiming it down the street whilst standing in the middle of the road.

Entrance to Chudleigh Road from Reservoir Road / Image taken from Google Maps

No one was injured during the shooting, and as Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to the charges he was not asked to explain his actions in court. After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midland Police stated: “the motive of the shooting has never been revealed.”

Detective Inspector Matt Marston, from WMP’s Major Crime Unit, added: “Firearms and drugs play a significant role in criminality on our streets. It persistently erodes communities, ruining lives and blighting communities.

“As a result of this discovery, we’ve taken a deadly weapon off the streets, and an individual with direct access to it is behind bars.”

He added: “We hope this sentence will offer a deterrent to other criminals who act in this way.”

CCTV footage of gunman brandishing firearm on Chudleigh Road

Erdington has had significant investment from West Midlands Police over recent months, with two policing initiatives being launched in the constituency – Operation Skybridge in October 2024, and Operation Fearless in January 2025.

Operation Fearless, which is focusing activities on and around Erdington High Street, has seen a team of 20 specially recruited officers tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in the Town Centre.

Since its launch in January 2025, Operation Fearless has seen 75 arrests for crimes from shoplifting and possession of an offence weapon, to assault and possession with intent to supply. The initiative has also seized hundreds of thousands of pounds in illegal drugs and contraband.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

In an exclusive update to Erdington Local, Detective Superintendent and Operation Fearless Lead Jim Munro told: “Since Operation Fearless launched on 7 January, we’ve now made 75 arrests and carried out 120 stop and searches. Of those 75 arrests, 44 people have already been charged and are now going through the courts.”

“Many of you have noticed a real improvement on the High Street, with comments like “What a difference Operation Fearless has made! Not only is it looking cleaner, but people seem a lot happier – a definite buzz of positivity in the air!” This kind of feedback, and the positive interactions our officers have received while out on patrol, confirms we’re on the right track.”

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

He added: “We still have a lot of work to do and we’re not slowing down. In fact, we’re working even harder. We’re teaming up with great partners and we’re always looking for ways to do better.

“We’re listening to you and working hard to make things better for the residents of Erdington. We’re all in this together, and we’ll keep you updated on what we’re doing.”

For details on how to report a crime in your area call West Midlands Polcie on 101, or visit: www.westmidlands.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously via the independent charity, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In case of an emergency, please dial 999.

 

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NEWS: The Swan pub raises over five thousand pounds to support John Taylor Hospice

Words by Ed King

The Swan on Erdington High Street / Image supplied by Stonegate Group

The Swan pub recently raised over five thousand pounds to help support John Taylor Hospice in Erdington.

The popular local boozer organised a series of fundraising events to raise money for Birmingham Hospice, the charity which manages end of life and palliative care facilities in both Erdington and Selly Oak.

Events including hamper raffles, toy drives, clothes collections, and book sales, saw The Swan raise a total £5,140 from generous regulars and local residents.

Fundraising sign / Image supplied by the Stonegate Group

Throughout January, staff at The Swan also gave up alcohol in bid to raise even more funds for the hospice charity, with bar top collection buckets getting a steady stream of donations.

Staff at The Swan thank the generosity of the Erdington community, with many local residents and pub regulars having personal connections to John Taylor Hospice.

Pub operator Wayne Hinton told: “To see the community come together to support such an important charity was a heartwarming and prime example of what makes the Erdington community so brilliant.

“The hospice is very close to all of us in the area and I’d like to personally thank every single person who has been generous enough to give money to a fantastic cause.”

He added: “A huge thanks must also go to our own staff who have not been afraid to get stuck in, raising a huge £5,140, and we’re not going to stop there! We have plenty more fundraising efforts to come in the coming months so watch this space!”

The Swan, located at 65 Erdington High Street, is a longstanding and popular community pub, operated as part of the Stonegate owned Craft Union Pub Company.

Drinks on draught / Image supplied by the Stonegate Group

Recent fundraising efforts are part Craft Union’s ‘Make it a Million’ campaign, which started in 2024 and aimed to raise £1 million for local causes through its network of over 600 pubs across the year.

At the time of writing the national portfolio of pubs and licenced had raised approximately £972,660 during the twelve month campaign, with staff at Stonegate’s support team contributing a further £96,813.

For more on The Swan visit www.craftunionpubs.com/swan-erdington

For more on Birmingham Hospice visit www.birminghamhospice.org.uk

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FEATURE: Update on Operation Fearless – tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in Erdington Town Centre

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Operation Fearless officially launched on 7 January, bringing a specially recruited police taskforce to Erdington High Street to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in and around the Town Centre.

So far, the team behind Operation Fearless have made a raft of arrests from drug dealing and shoplifting and taken both offensive weapons and violent offenders off the streets – with those arrested sent to answer for their crimes in court.

A month after the official launch of the policing initiative, the officer leading the Operation Fearless team – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro – has a special update message for Erdington locals and residents.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

“It’s hard to believe it’s already been a month since we launched Operation Fearless in Erdington. I’m really pleased to say we’re already seeing some real improvements on the High Street and in the surrounding area.

“You’ve probably noticed the increased police presence – more officers patrolling and we’ve been making more arrests too.

“A huge part of this success is down to some fantastic partnership work. My team has been working closely with the Council, immigration services, HMRC, and Transport for West Midlands. It really shows how much we can achieve when we all pull together.

“The support and feedback from local residents has been fantastic. We know people haven’t been feeling safe on the High Street, and some have even told us they’ve been avoiding the area altogether because of drug dealing and anti-social behaviour. We’ve also been talking to local businesses who have been hit hard by shoplifting – it’s been a real struggle for them.

“Since we boosted the police presence on the High Street, the difference has been noticeable. The community and business owners have told us they feel much safer. There are fewer suspicious characters hanging around, and the increased police presence has been really reassuring. Businesses are also reporting a decrease in shoplifting, and some of the most prolific offenders seem to have disappeared – which is excellent news.

Operation Fearless officers patrolling Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

“We’ve had some great results this past month. We’ve made over 36 arrests, with 16 charged and remanded, including some persistent shoplifters and people in possession of knives. We also carried out 60 stop searches, with 15 positive outcomes – that’s a 25% positive outcome rate. On top of that, we’ve executed eight warrants, recovering drugs and dangerous weapons from our streets.

“I know you, Erdington Local readers, and the wider community, will be pleased to hear about these results. I want to reassure everyone that we’re not taking our foot off the gas. We’re committed to tackling the criminals who pose a danger to our communities. I’ll be providing regular updates like this, so you can keep track of our progress.

And finally, if you see our officers out and about, please stop and have a chat. We’re always keen to hear your feedback and work with you to make the community even safer.”

Official launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park and on Erdington High Street 07.01.25

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

(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.

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

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NEWS: Operation Fearless team seize “thousands of pounds” worth of drugs and weapons in series of arrests

Words by Ed King

Drugs seized by Operation Fearless after man arrested on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Police from Operation Fearless have seized “thousands of pounds” worth of drugs and weapons in a series of arrests and early morning raids across Erdington.

Acting on intelligence from the local community, the Op Fearless team bust down the door to a residential address on 31 January – uncovering an illegal cannabis grow and “several weapons” at the Erdington home.

As confirmed by West Midlands Police, one man was arrested and processed on “suspicion of drug offences” with an investigation continuing after the further discovery of weapons.

Two further addresses were also raided with two more men arrested, with both wanted by police for a recall to prison – meaning they had broken previous parole conditions and would be sent back into custody.

Operation Fearless in early morning raid on residential address in Erdington / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Studies have shown cannabis plants can each yield around 10-15 ounces of the Class B drug, with a street sale value of up to £3000. It is unconfirmed how many plants were discovered at the Erdington address but a cannabis factory can potentially squeeze hundreds of plants into a residential home.

Operation Fearless were also cracking down on crime on Erdington High Street and arrested a man on 3 February who the police confirmed “was spotted on the High Street in possession of cannabis.”

Shoppers and businesses alike have reported people on Erdington High Street taking and selling drugs openly, seemingly without fear of reprisal.

Following the initial arrest, Operation Fearless then raided the man’s home addresses in Erdington with West Midlands Police further confirming they “recovered thousands of pounds worth of drugs” – as pictured at the top of this article.

Cannabis plants found by Operation Fearless in early morning raid on residential address in Erdington / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Whilst the image taken of the illegal drugs haul shows the police had mainly found what is suspected to be cannabis flower and cannabis resin in the raid, which are both rated as Class B by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, it also shows several bags of white and green powder that may be a Class A drug such as cocaine, crack cocaine, or methamphetamine (crystal meth).

Criminals charged for possession with intent to supply or distribute Class B drugs can face up to 14 years behind bars, as can those responsible for growing cannabis at home.

Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs can result in over seven years behind bars or even life imprisonment.

Operation Fearless Lead Detective Superintendent Jim Munro talking to media on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, leading Operation Fearless, said: “We’re continuing to focus on crimes we know matter most to people living in Erdington.

“Local residents tell us they’re concerned about drug-related offences around the High Street and our officers are conducting specific operations to target this.”

He added: “Working in partnership with other policing teams, the council, and community groups – we will not let up in trying to make Erdington a safer place to live, work, and visit.”

Operation Fearless was officially launched on 7 January 2025, following Operation Skybridge, bringing a specially recruited team of officers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour on Erdington High Street and around the Town Centre.

Supported by an investment of £880,000 from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC0), with the funds taken from proceeds of crime, the special policing initiative is being launched in Erdington before moving on to other areas across the city.

Operation Fearless team in group photo on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

DCI Jim Munro previously confirmed to Erdington Local the Op Fearless team “will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary” to hand the High Street safely back to local partners and the Erdington Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT).

Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden, who sits as Director of the Erdington Business Improvement District (EBID), also told: “Hopefully [Operation Fearless] can crack down on the serious anti-social behaviour and crime that’s been taking place on the High Street.

“Residents and businesses have been really concerned about that over the last few years, and we’ve been raising this with the police.”

He added: “And the key thing is, now there are all these additional officers here, is making sure both businesses and residents report any crime that they see.

“Because that information will get used and pooled together with other intelligence that other people submit and then enable [the police] to carry out raids, and to get warrants, and put people behind bars.”

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless/

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NEWS: From shoplifting to armed carjacking – Operation Fearless makes arrests across Erdington

Words by Ed King

Operation Fearless officers on patrol on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Since officially launching on Tuesday 7 January, officers from Operation Fearless have been making a raft of arrests across Erdington – apprehending criminals from shoplifters to armed carjackers.

The Op Fearless team have also seized weapons from suspects on the street, raided the address of a suspected drug dealer, and used “community intelligence” to catch wanted and violent criminals and send them to court.

In a brief breakdown of some of the arrests made by the Operation Fearless team so far, prolific and agressive shoplifters on Erdington High Street have been caught, charged, and processed on 17 Jan, 19 Jan, and 21 Jan.

Officers have seized weapons, including knives and bats, from individuals on the streets on 12 Jan and 20 Jan.

Operation Fearless officers and dog patrol unit on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

On 14 January, Operation Fearless and local police raided the home address of a suspected drug dealer – breaking down their front door on Derrydown Close and finding 50 wraps of drugs and a zombie knife.

On 17 January, after being alerted by staff at a local pub, Operation Fearless police apprehended a man after he smashed windows at the premises – further finding a knife, and that the man was previously wanted for robbery.

On the launch day itself, 7 January, arrests were made for sexual offences and failure to attend a previous court hearing.

But perhaps some of the most audacious arrests for the Operation Fearless team were made after receiving reports of an armed carjacking, taking place mid-afternoon on Saturday 18 January.

Partnering with police in the traffic and firearms teams, Operation Fearless cops tracked the stolen Kia car – which had been taken from a motorist on Short Heath Road at knife point – and gave chase.

Kia car stolen at knife point stopped by Operation Fearless officers, working with traffic and firearms police teams / Pics supplied by West Midlands Polcie

After refusing to stop and even ramming two police vehicles, the fugitives were finally corned and forced to surrender. Three people in their thirties were later charged with robbery, possession of a knife in a public place, aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, and other driving offences.

Operation Fearless have been funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner and will see 20 officers and £880,000 invested into Erdington Town Centre.

The initiative follows on from Operation Skybridge which was launched last autumn, and saw the police deploy extra resources to tackle crime across the wider Erdington constituency.

With an increase in “high-visibility patrols” and “targeted operations”, West Midlands Police state they introduced the special policing initiative to tackle crime on and around Erdington High Street – an area that has been a “hotspot” of crime and anti-social behaviour.

Operation Fearless lead Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Leading Operation Fearless, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro told Erdington Local: “We’ve got problems here and now, there’s no two ways about that; we’ve listened to the community. Theft, anti-social behaviour, open drug dealing or drug taking… all key things that, quite rightly, concern the community.

“So those are the things we need to address straight away, and we need to look at those issues and how we look to deter offending. And how we look to reduce that and put people through the criminal process if appropriate.”

He added: “[Operation Fearless} will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary to hand it into a place, where we feel, it is sustainable to look at regeneration.”

(l-r) Erdington Ward Councillors Gareth Moore and Robert Alden / Pic supplied by Cllr Alden

Funded until March 2026, Operation Fearless are encouraging Erdington local businesses and residents to report any and all crimes they see, using both the improved 111 and 999 services and by talking to bobbies on the beat around the High Street and other areas.

Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden (Conservative), who sits as Director of the Erdington Business Improvement District, reiterated this call to arms to report and fight crime.

He told Erdington Local: “It’s vital that businesses and residents report any crime they see; it might be a partial numberplate, it might be a partial description, but feed it in directly to the police – or to Crimestoppers if you [want to do this anonymously].”

He added: “Because that information will get used and pooled together with other intelligence that other people submit and then enable [the police] to carry out raids, and to get warrants, and put people behind bars.”

Operation Fearless police team raid address of suspected drug dealer on Derrydown Close

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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LOCAL PROFILE: Abdulrazaq Awofeso – acclaimed Nigerian artist living and working in Erdington

Words by Joshua Neicho

Abdulrazaq Awofeso standing in front of ‘Okrika’ at MAC, Oct’ 24 / Pic by Tegen Kimbley

Abdulrazaq Awofeso came to Erdington in 2021 on a Global Talent visa, establishing both his home and art studio in the constituency.

An acclaimed Nigerian artist, born in Lagos, he speaks of his pride in his new home and how he helps to clear up wood waste in the city through his art.

“I love the ambience [in Erdington] and because of the diverse community, one could easily integrate there,” he says. “Erdington is central and accessible… I love visiting the High Street. I also visit Erdington Leisure Centre where my daughter goes for swimming lessons.”

Two of his siblings live nearby, with a third in Braintree in Essex, and Awofeso has established a strong network of friends among Brum’s growing Nigerian diaspora – getting involved in community life.

“We’ve created our own activities in our group socially – support structures, avenues for jobs, sharing information,” he says. “We do events and try and culturally bring our own vibes into these.” For the culinary curious, Awofeso recommends the Nigerian restaurant, ÉKO 77, in Kingstanding.

‘Okrika’ on display as part of Waste Age: What can design do? exhibition at MAC, Oct ’24 / Pic by Tegan Kimbley

Awofeso has had exhibitions on simultaneously at the Midlands Art Centre (MAC) in Birmingham and London’s Ed Cross Fine Art, presenting his new commission ‘Okrika’ – wooden sculptures representing clothing items, displayed on wire hangers flat against a wall. Many bear logos of luxury and sportswear brands, from Dior to D&G and Fila to Puma.

Commissioned by the South Birmingham arts centre, and on tour with the Design Museum, Awofeso’s ‘Okrika’ is on display as part of the Waste Age: What can design do? at MAC until Sunday 23 February.

The work refers to Nigerian second-hand clothing markets, named Okrika, where fashion-conscious Nigerians can pick up used designer items imported from Europe or the US. Okrika are alternatively known as akube (“second hand” in Igbo), Tokunbo (“from the sea” in Yoruba) or ‘bend-down boutiques’.

Abdulrazaq Awofeso in conversation with Rose Davey at Akube Remix exhibition, Ed Cross Fine Art, London, Dec ’24 / Pic by Joshua Neicho

The material for Awofeso’s work comes from wooden pallets he “picks up anywhere,” driving around Erdington and wider Birmingham looking out for the waste wood left in industrial areas.

Once he’s gone through the process of taking out the nails and physically dismantling the pallets, only some are durable enough and look right to use for artwork. Then he gets down to sanding and cutting strips to size. In a day’s scouting for material, Awofeso might take 20 pallets and end up using about 60% of them.

Awofeso has been using wooden pallets as the exclusive medium for his art since a formative time 15 years ago when he was living in Johannesburg, South Africa. He had enrolled in a sculpture workshop, which led to him transitioning from being a painter to a sculptor who also painted.

Awofeso was also fundraising for Greenpeace which had just set up an office in the city, and remembers that across from the workshop, “staring at me everyday”, was a transportation park full of discarded pallets. He says: “I felt I could do something with them – I thought I could easily make an impact.”

Abdulrazaq Awofeso (centre) with Ed Cross (left) and guest (right) at Akube Remix exhibition, Ed Cross Fine Art, London, Dec ’24 / Pic by Joshua Neicho

Outside of his artwork, Awofeso is also personally a fan of vintage items and eclectic accessories made of natural materials – he owns watches with straps crafted from wood and stone, spectacles made from bamboo, and he drives an electric vehicle hoping the government with further incentivise people to make the shift from petrol to electric.

He is, however, unwilling to call himself an activist. “I’m not going to be made an authority on environmental matters; I want to be an artist. I can’t determine the good way to live for everyone… For me, I feel I should control my own quota”.

Abdulrazaq Awofeso first exhibited his work using pallets during the 2010 World Cup at the hit exhibition Space Currencies in Contemporary African Art, curated by Thembinkosi Goniwe, at Museum Afrika in Johannesburg.

He has since addressed a range of political, social, and religious themes in his art – particularly connecting the idea of moving goods with human migration, since all the pallets he uses have been in transit themselves.

Abdulrazaq Awofeso with Nigerian friends at private view for Waste Age: What design can do? exhibition at MAC, Oct ’24 / Pic by Joshua Neicho

Recent UK based exhibitions have included Out of Frame at the Ikon Gallery in 2022, with colourfully painted wooden portraits plus his work ‘Avalanche of Calm’ – a diorama of 3000 miniature wooden figures under clouds. He also exhibited ‘Broad Streets’ at Ed Cross in London last year, with figures and scenes based on people Awofeso encountered on the streets bearing that name in both Birmingham and Lagos.

He has exhibited internationally too, including in Rome and Brazil, and has work in the British Government Art Collection and the Luciano Benetton inspired Imago Mundi Collection – as well as and other prominent institutional and private collections across the globe.

“I’ve always been in transit,” says Awofeso, comparing his own journey to that of the pallets he uses. “Do whatever comes from your heart. Do what you have to do, and the world will adjust”.

Abdulrazaq Awafeso talking about his recent commission ‘Okrika’ from his Erdington studio

Abdulrazaq Awafeso’s work can be currently seen in Birmingham at Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), where his piece ‘Okrika’ is on display as part of the Waste Age: What can design do? touring exhibition by the Design Museum – at MAC until Sunday 23 February 2025.

For further details on Waste Age: What can design do? at MAC visit www.macbirmingham.co.uk/exhibitions/waste-age-what-can-design-do

For more on Abdulrazaq Awofeso follow him on Instagram at www.instagram.com/abdulrazaqawofeso

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NEWS: Police and Crime Commissioner confirms “no final decision” has been made on moving Neighbourhood Policing Team off Castle Vale

Words by Ed King

PCC Simon Foster at the launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King

After months of speculation the Tyburn Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) could be moved off Castle Vale and relocated to Erdington Town Centre, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Simon Foster has now confirmed “no final decision has been made” and any plans are “still under review”.

Castle Vale Local was first informed about the possible Tyburn NPT move in autumn last year, which would see the team of community police officers moved to Erdington Police Station – placing them at least 50minutes walking distance away from the edge of the Castle Vale estate and an average of between 12-20minutes if responding in a police car or vehicle.

A map of the area covered by the Tyburn Neighbourhood Policing Team / Image taken from WMP website

When asked for confirmation if the move was imminent, or being considered at all, spokespeople for both West Midlands Police (WMP) and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPPC) were initially unclear as to who would be making the final decision.

But speaking to Castle Vale Local at the recent launch of Operation Fearless, held at Villa Park on Tuesday 7 January, PCC Simon Foster confirmed that whilst “ultimately that is an operational policing decision for the Chief Constable and the local area police borough commander” his office was not aware that any plans had been finalised.

Chief Constable Craig Guildford at the launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King

Furthermore, the West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford confirmed if there was a financially viable option to keep the Tyburn NPT on Castle Vale then “of course [the police would] look at that.”

He added: “In particular, it might be good as a touchdown point for some of our neighbourhood cops and PCSOs. So, I’d never rule anything out. But I’m just being honest and saying my job is to make the pounds go as far as I can squeeze them.”

In previous statements from West Midlands Police, after initial enquiries and calls for clarification, Superintendent Emlyn Richards told Castle Vale Local: “The Tyburn neighbourhood policing team remain based in Castle Vale, however, our lease on their office expires in 2025.”

Reiterating the Chief Constable’s financial concerns surrounding some operational decisions, he added: “Understandably we’re exploring all possibilities to ensure good value for public money balanced our commitment to delivering effective policing.”

Police car parked on Farnborough Road, Castle Vale / Pic by Ed King

When the possible move of the Tyburn NPT was first reported on by Castle Vale Local, Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin (Labour) and The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson began petitioning the police for consultation before any plans were finalised – raising significant concerns about a spike in crime and anti-social behaviour if the public facing police team were to leave the estate.

Since being elected in 2022, Cllr Goodwin fostered a close working relationship with the Tyburn NPT police team and was seen by many, both stakeholders and residents, as having helped the police tackle crime across the estate.

In May 2024, Cllr Goodwin organised a ‘Crime and Community Safety Summit’ at Greenwood Academy on Farnborough Road, to address residents concerns over crime rates and police presence across the estate. The event was attended by many local residents, alongside Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton, PCC Simon Foster, and the then Tyburn NPT Sergeant Edkins.

Broken police tape by the old police station on Castle Vale High Street / Pic by Ed King

After the closure of the police station on Castle Vale High Street, The Pioneer Group had been providing the Tyburn NPT with working space at The Greenhouse – office facilities owned by the housing provider in the centre of the estate – where the local police ran a ‘pop up’ police facility for local residents.

This had been given by The Pioneer Group without rental charges, with the police only liable for “their share of service charges for use of space in our building”, confirmed CEO Simon Wilson, and if the NPT sought to renew their lease “the core terms [would] remain the same – share of service charges and peppercorn rent (i.e.no rent).”

Mr Wilson added “This was to help ensure we could keep the Neighbourhood Policing Team located on Castle Vale.”

In an open letter to both the Chief Constable and Police and Crime Commissioner, written and signed by both Cllr Ray Goodwin and Simon Wilson, the local stakeholders expressed their “very genuine concern” and called for any action to be “put on hold” until “meaningful engagement is undertaken” to reach a solution that would not see Castle Vale lose its uniformed police presence.

Police and forenics investigating a violent attack and reports of gunfire on Castle Vale / Pic supplied by local resident

Both West Midlands Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner continue to state that working with partners, such as locally elected officials and housing associations, is a key part of their neighbourhood policing strategy.

In the recent West Midlands Police Neighbourhood Policing Ambition document, setting out the regionwide approach to community policing until 2026, Chief Constable Craig Guildford states how the new “neighbourhood policing model [will] ensure we remain connected and engaged with our communities [and] continue to work with partners” – a sentiment reiterated throughout the sixteen-page mission statement.

Castle Vale Local continues to liaise with all parties involved and will keep our readers updated.

For more on the Tyburn Neighbourhood Police Team, visit: www.westmidlands.police.uk/area/your-area/west-midlands/birmingham/tyburn/about-us/top-reported-crimes-in-this-area

 

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP at the official launch of Operation Feareless at Villa Park / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

I’m thrilled to kick off the new year by sharing some exciting updates about our amazing communities across Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.

After years of relentless campaigning, I’m proud to announce that we’ve secured £880,000 for Operation Fearless through the proceeds of crime funding, headed up by Simon Foster, Labour’s Police and Crime Commissioner.

This initiative is a game-changer for tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, breathing new life into Erdington High Street – the beating heart of our community. Leading this campaign has been an absolute honour, and working with local residents, traders, the police, and the council has truly shown what we can achieve when we work together.

While this funding is a major step forward, it’s just the start of our journey to transform the high street. I remain committed to making our high streets a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place for everyone.

Paulette Hamilton MP and young people with Labour’s Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions, Alison McGovern MP, at Witton Lodge Community Association / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

Another highlight was welcoming Alison McGovern MP, Labour’s Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions, to Erdington. During her visit, she engaged with young people at the Witton Lodge Community Association and joined discussions with the North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board, which I proudly chair.

We also visited the Erdington Jobcentre to hear from work coaches about their experiences in helping local residents into employment.

Erdington is truly making its mark, attracting vital funding and national attention. These achievements reflect the strength of our community and our shared determination to create a better and safer future for all.

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

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OPINION: Operation Fearless – launch success as partners pledge to work together for Erdington

Words by West Midlands Police

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Arrests, vehicle and drug seizures and £500,000 of counterfeit goods recovered – Operation Fearless has officially arrived in Erdington.

Tuesday 7 January marked the formal launch of Fearless, a major new initiative to drive down crime and improve life in Erdington with a combination of high-profile visible activity and work with partners such as Birmingham City Council (BCC).

Around 150 people gathered at Villa Park to hear from Chief Constable Craig Guildford, Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, and others about the ambitious plans to make Erdington a safer and better place to live.

Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street as part of Operation Fearless / Pic by West Midlands Police

In the afternoon, the Fearless team got to work in Erdington, supported by colleagues with dogs, drones, knife detecting equipment and even horses from Thames Valley Police.

The operation saw:

  • One man wanted on suspicion of burglary in the West Mercia area was arrested in an operation targeting criminals using the bus network to travel into Erdington
  • One man was arrested for failing to appear at court
  • Two vehicles were seized – one because it was being used in crime, and another because it was being driven without insurance
  • Six men were arrested for conspiracy to defraud over the seizure of £500,000 of counterfeit and illicit goods, including cigarettes, vapes, and prescription medication, in a joint operation with BCC’s Trading Standards team

The work of the Fearless team, made up of uniformed and plain clothes officers as well as detectives and other teams, will continue over the weeks to come, and will move into other areas, while working with partners to ensure that the improvements made in Erdington are not undone.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro taking to media at Operation Fearless launch on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Det Supt Jim Munro, who leads the Fearless team, said: “[7 January] was a fantastic launch and the support by partners from across the region, from the council to Transport for West Midlands, to immigration and children’s services has been phenomenal.

“We backed up our words with real action… making arrests and removing counterfeit goods from the High Street.

“Fearless will only succeed with the support of people in Erdington though. When you see our officers, chat to them about what concerns you have and where you think we should be directing our work. That will make a real difference.”

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless