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FEATURE: Spend, spend, spend… Kingstanding to get £2m per year in ‘Pride in Place’ initiative

A collection of UK bank notes / Photograph sourced form Adobe Stock mages

Words by Ed King

On 25 September, the Labour Government announced it was allocating £5bn to “long overlooked communities” across the country – supporting the locally led regeneration of “high streets, parks and public spaces”, as part of their ‘Pride in Place’ initiative.

In total, 339 neighbourhoods were in line to receive the widespread and welcomed funding – with the investment pot in each area governed by a team of local people and partner organisations.

Kingstanding was one of them. And now the residents and businesses of B44 will see £2m invested into their local community – each year, for ten years.

As the dust settles on this game changing announcement, Erdington/Kingstanding Local look at where the money came from, and – more importantly for most – where it could go.

(l-r) Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Paulette Hamilton on campaign trail in Erdington for 2022 Birmngham Erdington by-election / Photograph by Claire Taylor

“I promised to fight for investment in our area, and I am proud to have delivered on that promise.”

A press release from Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton lands on the Erdington Local and Kingstanding Local news desk, under embargo, from an excited Parliamentary team with a big announcement. We are sworn to secrecy for 24 hours. But the message is clear – and one full of ambition, hyperbole, and the occasional restrained battle cry.

Kingstanding is about to get some serious cash.

£2m per year, for ten years to be exact, coming to B44 as part of the Labour Government’s ‘Pride in Place’ initiative – which will see £5bn spread across 339 town centres and suburbs “to restore pride in their neighbourhoods”, as defined by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed.

To use Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s own words, “it’s a huge investment”. And it’s not just the money, although £20m is a big enough win to shout about on its own. Especially in a ward with over 20,000 people that ranks at 12 out of 67 on the city’s list of most deprived areas – according to the last analysis in 2019.

Signpost for Sutton Coldfield and Kingstanding / Photograph by Ed King

According to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the arm of Government in charge of allocating the fund, the grant carries “unprecedented new powers” over issues such as community asset transfers and compulsory purchase orders. It also gives the Local Authority more room to block potentially unwelcome business such as gambling outlets, barbers, and “dodgy vape shops.”

But ultimately, the decision was made across the country by needs testing.

“This £20 million investment was secured for Kingstanding because it meets the specific criteria for high deprivation and weak social infrastructure,” explains Paulette Hamilton MP, explaining how her office secured the money from central Government.

“For too long, the people of Kingstanding have felt overlooked, but now, with a Labour MP and a Labour government on their side, they are finally getting the investment they deserve.”

Traffic cones on College Road, Kingstanding / Photograph by Ed King

In today’s increasingly cynical world much good news gets heard as bad. Especially online. And even £20m it seems is not enough to silence the world wide wolves.

Quickly after Erdington Local publishes its initial article online, as the Prime Minister is telling the other 338 recipients how decline in their area “ends now”, reader responses come flooding in. Some good, some supportive; some slinging all too familiar mud.

The overriding challenge is why the investment is not coming to Erdington, as in the political ward that includes Erdington High Street – an area, as with High Streets across the country, that is perfectly positioned within the ‘Pride of Place’ rhetoric.

When the MHCLG press release mentions “boarded-up shops… nuisance businesses” and their support for local partners to “buy beloved local assets before they close”, it’s hard not to think of Erdington Town Centre.

Boundary lines of Kingstanding South East / Map taken from www.findthatpostcode.uk as directed by the office of Paulette Hamilton MP

Plus, the boundary line for where the £2m per annum can be invested cuts Kingstanding Circle in half – pushing half of Kings Road and Kingstanding Road out of the picture – and turns left onto Hawthorn Road, further excluding many businesses and buildings around the Dyas Road interchange.

But Kingstanding Ward is 26 places higher up the ‘Index of Deprivation’ than Erdington Ward. And the B23 Town Centre has recently received £880,000 worth of extra policing support in Operation Fearless – a high impact initiative to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.

A spokesperson for the new Erdington Business Improvement District team added: “Erdington Town Centre has seen drastic improvement [after Operation Fearless] and is in the process of securing its own funding for cultural events and markets.

“Crime is much lower and our community events are coming back; we’re heading back in the right direction.”

They added: “Erdington High Street could always use investment and previously missed out on both the Future High Street and Levelling Up funds. But the [Pride in Place] money is understandably going to Kingstanding; it’s a fully appropriate allocation.”

Other responses circling the initial announcement ranged from directly personal attacks at the Erdington MP – including an odd challenge about Paulette Hamilton’s winter wardrobe – to more widespread concerns over how the money will be managed. Or mismanaged.

“Don’t let the MPs or councillors anywhere near it,” states one comment on the Erdington Local Facebook page. “They’ve already bankrupt the city.”

Signpost for College Road / Photgraph by Ed King

Now this is harder to counter, on a local level at least. As Birmingham City Council continues to crawl out from its financial hole – with services drastically cut, assets ruthlessly sold, a perpetual bin strike, and an unprecedented rise in Council Tax (effectively handing a chunk of the city’s bill onto its residents) – you could see how £2m year could come in handy.

But the ‘Pride in Place’ funding comes with clear stipulations from the MHCLG that “local people will decide how funding is spent”, with a Board of local Kingstanding residents and stakeholders, chaired by the Erdington MP, ultimately holding the purse strings.

A sentiment of local solidarity backed by the Prime Minister, who states: “what matters most is who decides how [the funding] spent: the neighbours, volunteers and parents who know their communities best – the people with real skin in the game.”

Furthermore, the MHCLG “will only approve spending if Pride in Place Boards have genuinely engaged their communities”, although how this will be monitored is yet to be clarified.

Sign at the entrance to Conker Island park and play area in Kingstanding / Photgraph by Ed King

Sitting Kingstanding Councillor Clifton Welch (Conservatives) takes a pragmatic approach, seeing the money as “a golden opportunity” – despite his ongoing concerns over the “incompetent Labour Council”.

“I hope the money will be invested to improve the areas like Hawthorn Road, Kingstanding Circle and Conker Island,” adds Cllr Welch, hoping such civic improvements could “attract additional private investment.”

He’s also keen to see the ward’s green spaces such in Burford Park, Finsbury Park and Conker Island “protected” and better serve the children and families on Kingstanding for “decades to come. I want to see this money used for legacy projects.”

Gary Byrne, Vice Principal at Kings Rise Academy, sees the investment as both “fantastic” and “long overdue”, hoping the annual seven figure amounts “honours the legacy of Kingstanding’s proud history” whilst also supporting “its growing and diverse demographic so that a unity of community purpose can be found.”

A fiercely loyal educator and Kingstanding resident, Gary Byrne has long been a champion of B44’s young people – nurturing ambition and a sense of pride in the pupils at Kings Rise Academy through world record breaking challenges and an acute celebration of the suburb’s history, both inside and outside the classroom.

And despite not turning a blind eye to the criminality and aggression that plagues some of Kingstanding’s streets “the desire [for positive change] is there,” adds Gary. “Hopefully the will of the [Pride in Place] board can match these aspirations.”

Gary Byrne, Vice Principal at Kings Rise Academy / Photograph by Ed King

Andy Leeming, Headteacher at Kingsthorne Primary School, also hopes young people are a central consideration in the coming investment.

After the announcement, Leeming tells Erdington Local “it would be great” for local educators to benefit from the bursary (including Kingsthorne’s own “community building which has unfortunately fallen into disrepair”) but adds “anything that brings finances into the area and can improve local facilities has to be a positive.”

Outside of education, Bishop Desmond Jaddoo MBE also welcomes the funding “as an opportunity to make a genuine difference in our community.”

Chair of Birmingham Empowerment Forum, Bishop Jaddoo has been longstanding resident of Kingstanding and acts as a “community advocate” for the area in good times and bad – campaigning for local unity, challenging youth violence, and bringing the first bleed kits to the area.

When 14year old Dea-John Reed was stabbed and killed by another youngster in broad daylight on College Road, amidst widespread allegations of racial aggression, Bishop Jadoo lead the local community through a peaceful vigil and kept the streets calm. He knows first hand the knife edge a local community can rest upon.

(l-r) Bishop Desmond Jaddoo with Dea-John Reid’s mother, Jean Morris, at Shine-A-Light vigil on College Road, Kingstanding / Photograph by Ed King

“For this funding to achieve lasting and meaningful impact,” explains Bishop Jaddoo, “it must be directed toward sustainable, locally led initiatives that reflect the true needs, aspirations, and diversity of Kingstanding’s residents.”

Simply pouring money over poverty has a chequered perfect track record, not only in local government. The 1961 Littlewoods Football Pools winner Viv Nicholson once said, after winning a modern equivalent of around £4.3m, she was going to “spend, spend, spend” before becoming a bankrupt alcoholic.

“We must invest in people – in understanding, unity, and the creation of a shared sense of belonging,” adds Bishop Jaddoo, hoping any bricks and mortar investment will also rebuild some of the community’s more emotional walls.

“Every pound invested should deliver visible benefit,” he concludes, “improving lives, opportunities, and trust within Kingstanding.”

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FEATURE: When Sheila met John, who once met… Ozzy Osbourne

Ed’s note… this feature was recently published on the LOCAL AMBASSADORS pages in the July/August Erdington Local newspaper/.

But in light of the news that Ozzy Osborne has passed away we are publishing it online today – it paints a poignant picture of the man behind the rock star, whilst celebrating his lineage and links with North Birmingham.

R.I.P. Ozzy – a prince (of darkness) amongst men, who stayed grounded and respectful to his roots whilst becoming one of the most recognised rock icons in history. Our thoughts and condolences to his friends, family, and loved ones.

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Ozzy Osbourne at HMV Birmingham (now closed) on Corporation Street – during Scream tour, June 2010 / Photograph by Paul Ward

You may have heard, a local band done good recently played their farewell gig at Villa Park…

To celebrate Erdington’s links with Black Sabbath, LOCAL AMBASSADOR Sheila Pennell dug out an article she first published in The Oldie Magazine – telling the story how Erdington local John Slatford knew Ozzy Osbourne before he became the founding frontman for Heavy Metal, an international superstar, and self-proclaimed Prince of Darkness.

Words by Sheila Pennell – written on behalf of John Slatford

“A boom-baby, born before the NHS, I grew up in the slums of Aston in Brum – as did John ‘Ozzy’ Osbourne. And in the late 1960s/early 70s, I’d drink beer and play snooker with Ozzy, his dad Jack and uncle Jim – also known as Ozzy – along with my own dad Frank at the Brookvale Park Social Working Men’s Club.

“My dad had been friends with the Osbourne family for years, and before the war lodged with Jim and Violet Osbourne, along with a woman known as ‘Old Lady Osbourne’ in Turfpits Lane, Erdington.

“I’d go listen to Ozzy’s band in their earlier incarnation as the Rock/Blues band ‘Earth’ at Henry’s Blues House on a Saturday night at the Crown Pub in Brum’s city centre.

“Later, Ozzy invited me to the first ever Black Sabbath concert at Birmingham Town Hall. Others invited included his mother Lily and father Jack, who had paid for the venue, Uncle Jim and Aunt Violet, my mom and dad, my wife Kath, plus my Uncle Joe. John had organised that we’d have the Dress Circle to ourselves and all the men were dressed in suits and ties.

“The paying public were few in number, and initially sat in the ‘cheap seats’ on the steps of the organ behind the stage. And this wasn’t surprising as only those of us who’d known the earlier band would have heard of them.

“Once Sabbath started their act and the audience realised that the more expensive seats on the ground floor were empty, there was a mad rush as they climbed over the dividing barriers to occupy them.

“Some of the invited family ‘guests’ complained that ‘the music was a bit loud’, never having heard a band like Sabbath before.

“Part of the band’s image was a result of Ozzy’s father Jack, an engineer by trade, making their original large crosses out of aluminium sheet. Amazing he could do that, as he never even repaired his own spectacles, which were held together with an Elastoplast. He claimed this allowed him to adjust the frame when playing snooker – something he was very good at – unlike [Ozzy].

John Slatford, who grew up with Ozzy in Aston and then moved to work and live in Erdingotn – where he still lives today / Photograph supplied by John Slatford

“One bizarre happening in the early days was when Freddie Harris, the Concert Secretary of the working men’s club, asked Ozzy’s Dad if he could ‘book the band for one of the Saturday night dances’. As the couples attending expected Waltzes, Quick Steps and Tangos it was no big surprise that Black Sabbath was never booked again.

“I always found Ozzy a laid-back easy-going guy, and believe him when he says the nearest he ever came to Black Magic was a box of chocolates! John was just a regular young man with a wicked sense of humour who liked a pint with ‘just an interest’ in heavy rock. I’d say nothing like the man he became. It seems the years of drugs and alcohol abuse have taken their toll.

“At the launch of the band as Black Sabbath, [Ozzy] gave me the first ‘off the press’ publicity photo. He signed it and gave me a copy of their first album, which I have to this day. I took it home, played it, and thought that the first track was a micky-take. It had church bells, torrential rain, along with thunder and lightning.

“When I told [Ozzy], he was far from impressed. He told me quite firmly, ‘it was supposed to be serious’.”

Black Sabbath promotional picture, signed by Ozzy Osborne for John Slatford / Photograph supplied by John Slatford

 

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FEATURE: In the skies above Spitfire Island – a look at the proud military past and present of the Castle Vale estate

VE Day 80 year anniversary decoration at YoungStars Community Hub / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

Words by Tracy Fisher

(Ed’s note – this feature was first published in the Erdington Local newspaper on 15 May 2025. To be the first to get your copy of Erdington Local delivered to your door each month, email [email protected] for more details.)

As the country and Commonwealth celebrated the 80 year anniversary of the Victory in Europe Day, when Hitler’s Germany surrendered to the Allied forces – ending World War Two – bunting, decorations, and Union Flags could be seen all over the streets and houses of Birmingham.

But not many places in the second city were so important to the war effort as Castle Vale, which produced many of the Spitfire Fighters and Lancaster Bombers that successfully defended our skies during the Battle of Britian and beyond.

Castle Vale resident and daughter of a Navy serving family, Tracy Fisher, explores the pivotal military history and proud legacy of the Castle Vale estate.

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Silhouette of sculpture at Spitfire Island / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

From Spitfire Island to Farnborough Road, between the crofts and walks that entwine our community, lies the remarkable history of Castle Vale.

On 8 May 2025 people celebrated the 80 year anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE day) marking the German surrender and end of World War Two. But nestled amidst its street names and shops is a constant reminder of Castle Vale’s deeply rooted aviation past and crucial contribution to our armed forces during the six year conflict with Germany and the Axis powers excluding Japan.

So let me take you back… The year, 1943.

Three years on from the Battle of Britain and factory workers are busy on the production line located at Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory (CBAF) – the current site of Jaguar Land Rover. The war effort continues at pace with an estimated weekly rollout of 320 Spitfires and production of the first Avro Lancaster Bomber.

Chief Test Pilot Alex Henshaw and his team of 25 test pilots carry out the necessary flight tests to ensure that aircraft waiting in the hangars are ready for combat, then ferried to various locations by the women of the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA). Imagine the rumble of the Spitfires and Lancaster Bombers, the smell of aviation fuel, the heavy noise of the propellers as they prepare to depart from the runway, taking to the skies above the Vale.

Look up, do it now and imagine what it would’ve looked like, how it felt to be there.

It is testament to the men and women of the CBAF that by the end of the war the factory produced around 12,000 Spitfires and 350 Lancaster Bombers, a contribution that enabled Allied forces to defeat Germany.

People celebrating VE Day 80 year anniversary at The Meeting Cafe / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

As victory in Europe was declared on 8 May 1945, jubilation on the streets of Britain and Allied countries ensued. Dancing, street parties, moments of joy and tears for those who came back from war, those who sacrificed their lives, and the six years of sacrifice made by those at home – but despite everything, still a community.

Fast forward 80 years, and I find myself asking ‘is it possible to mirror that same pride the country felt in 1945 among our own community today?’ Coming from a military family – with my father, uncle, and aunt all having served in the Royal Navy and WRNS – I would say a similar sense of local pride was echoed when my Uncle David Hughes, who grew up on Castle Vale, came back from the Falklands War in 1982 having served on HMS Fearless.

The bunting was proudly displayed, ‘Welcome Home Dave’ read the huge handwritten sign strewn across the front of the house. Neighbours, friends, and family, all welcoming him back home safely.

As with every war or conflict, whether it is 80 years ago or more recent, what often binds a community together is a shared history and mutual respect.

(l-r) Cllr Ray Goodwin and Castle Vale veteran Frankie Ward display VE Day 80 year anniversary commemorative flag in Centre Park / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

Having seen active service in Afghanistan, Frankie Ward, a Castle Vale Army veteran, believes that “as tensions rise worldwide, we need to remember the old wars such as World War One and World War Two so we don’t fall into the same mistakes again,” adding that Castle Bromwich Aerodrome “played a pivotal role in this country’s history where Spitfires and Lancasters had their final tests done before they went to defend Britain.”

He continued: “The flying of the Union Flag would highlight what this area stood for and the great foundations of the previous use of this land”.

Frankie’s proposal, backed by Cllr Ray Goodwin (Castle Vale, Labour) finally happened on the morning of the VE Day 80 year anniversary – as a Union Flag, bearing an image of a Spitfire, was hoisted and is now proudly flying high in Centre Park.

I had the privilege to spend time with staff and cadets from 165 Squadron Castle Bromwich Air Cadets, to the celebrate their VE Day 80 year anniversary – as they held their own unit ‘street’ party, complete with bunting, food, games, and a DJ playing music from the 1940’s.

165 Squadron Castle Bromwich Air Cadets / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

The wartime festivities continued into the evening, ending with a rendition of Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’ and several cadets dancing together, keeping in with the spirit of the occasion.

It was clear that local military pride remains high among the younger generation. On the importance of celebrating and remembering not only VE Day but also more recent conflicts, one female cadet told: “It is important to commemorate those across Europe instead of just in the UK, as a person not from the UK.”

I also asked if any of them would consider joining the Armed Forces in the future, with another cadet saying she wanted to “carry on the legacy of family”.

As the years pass by, the way each generation remembers past wars and conflicts will inevitably change. But how we recall these events to future generations is equally important.

Even the youngest of Castle Vales’ residents enjoyed some VE Day fun during the 80 year anniversary celebrations – at a special event held at the YoungStars Community Hub – with games, food, music, and by creating their own artwork to commemorate the occasion.

Girl dressed up for VE Day 80 year anniversary celebration at YoungStars Community Hub / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

Luke McClean of YoungStars explained: “As Castle Vale played a vital role in World War Two, we believe it’s crucial to teach [young people] about their inheritance and what came before them.”

He added: “It is great for us to show before and after photos of Castle Vale, showing them what our estate used to look like [and] sparking interesting conversations between the kids. It has been great to see how invested they have been.”

So, celebrate and remember those who served, and continue to serve on the ground, ocean and skies. They will never be forgotten; there will never be goodbyes.

PICTURE GALLERY: VE Day 80 year anniversary celebrations on Castle Vale / Photographs by Tracy Fisher

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NEWS: Planning approved to turn HMO on Goodway Road into children’s care home for young people with “vulnerabilities and difficulties with behaviours”

Words by Ed King

Existing and proposed floor plans for development at 55 Goodway Road, Kingstanding / Graphics taken from planning application

Planning has been approved by Birmingham City Council to turn a house in multiple occupancy (HMO) at 55 Goodway Road into a children’s care home.

The semi-detached property is currently housing eight people as an HMO. But on 8 May, Birmingham City Council planning committee gave developers the green light to change its use – allowing for a conversion to house three young people aged between six and 17 years old and their onsite carers.

In the ‘Statement of Purpose’ submitted to Birmingham City Council, the applicant states the development would “provide care and accommodation” for the young people “who identify as being in need of residential care due their vulnerabilities and difficulties with behaviours.”

According to Government findings, the number of children in care and ‘looked after’ by social services across the UK was up to 83,630 – based on data collected from 31 March 2023, to 31 March 2024.

The number of care homes and residential provision for vulnerable young people across the country, based on data from the same time period, was up to 3491 – a rise of around 12% from the previous year.

First submitted to BCC on 28 October 2024, the plans received objections from both local Oscott Ward councillors, Barbara Dring (Labour) and Darius Sandhu (Conservatives) – citing the vulnerability of local young people and pensioners as a concern, as well as the potential disruption to a predominately residential area.

A total of 32 letters from local residents objecting to the change of use were also received, with the planning committee’s report referencing concerns including pressure on local services and a lack of clear consultation.

Further concerns that were highlighted, as raised by local residents in their letters of objection, included the “applicant’s legitimacy” and “perceived financial motives” for the development of a children’s care home.

The application to change the use of 55 Goodway Road to allow for the development of a children’s care home was made by Stockport based care provider, iCare Solutions.

On their website, the company states it “is on a mission to empower lives with compassionate care and transformative support for children” and provides “top-notch residential childcare and support,

In their most recent Care Quality Commission inspection, published in March 2023, iCare were rated ‘Good’ – having addressed previous concerns raised by the CQC inspectors over a “[failure] to ensure safe recruitment practice”.

Alongside caring for children from birth to 18 years old, the organisation is also listed as providing care for adults both over and under 65 adults on the CQC database. It further offers support for people living with conditions from dementia and learning difficulties to physical disabilities and sensory impairments.

Outside of the Council House in Birmingham City Centre – with ‘BROKE’ stamp added / Photograph supplied by Adobe Stock Image and adapted for publishing

In a bid to balance the books after the financial crisis at Birmingham City Council, the Local Authority has approved cuts to children’s services provision by a reported £39m in the city’s budget for 2025/26.

Children’s Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, responded to the cuts by stating she was “massively frustrated and furious” – especially when the area governed by Birmingham City Council has previously had “real problems in terms of child deaths and child safeguarding issues.”

In an interview with ITV News Central, Dame de Souza when on to state: “We need to make sure child safeguarding is supported, children are supported, and that children’s services are the last things that get cut.”

Gravelly Hill Cllr Mick Brown (Labour) and Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour

When previously asked by ITV News Central if the cuts could endanger life, Gravelly Hill Cllr Mick Brown, who is the current local Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, told: “It’s obviously a concern… It’s something that we need to be aware of, and I think we need to avoid being complacent.”

Planning officers at Birmingham City Council have granted iCare Solutions three years to complete their proposed development at 55 Goodway Road, Kingstanding.

For more on iCare Solutions visit www.icaresolution.co.uk

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FEATURE: Remembering Rose Hanks, Erdington’s pioneering TT sidecar racer

Rose Hanks in official racing attire / Pic supplied by Hanks family

Earlier this year, Erdington’s pioneering TT sidecar racer Rose Hanks passed away. A stalwart in the male dominated sport, Rose Hanks became the first female competitor to stand on the winners’ podium at an Isle of Man TT – inspiring women and girls everywhere to take up motor racing.

LOCAL AMBASSADOR and journalist, Sheila Pennell, interviewed Rose for a feature in Yours Magazine some years ago – and with fresh quotes from her family, and some kindly donated photographs, Sheila has put together a special feature remembering the life and achievements of this exceptional woman.

With thanks to the Hanks family.
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Words by Sheila Pennell / Pics donated by the Hanks family

Erdington’s dare-devil sidecar racer, Rose Hanks, passed away peacefully in February this year, aged 86. Her achievements in the sport, including becoming the first female rider to stand on the winners’ podium at the Isle-of-Man TT, were featured in the Radio 4 show Last Word with input from her daughter, Julie Hanks-Elliott.

Julie’s twin daughters, Jamie and Bobby, are ensuring that today’s growing female interest in TT and motorcycle sports will live on – with Julie currently competing at the World Women’s Road Race Championships.

Rose Hanks (left) with grandaughter Jamie (middle) and daughter Julie (right) / Pic supplied by Hanks family

The Hanks motorcycle dynasty had humble beginnings, starting life after the war when Fred Hanks and his wife Maizie opened Fred Hanks Motorcycles at 247 Slade Road, Erdington.

Fred decided ‘motorisation’ was going to be the future, and ran the Slade Road store with his two sons – Norman who often raced with Rose, and Roy who was the one who finally won her heart.

However, being a woman in a male dominated sport at the time garnered attention from some more surprising places.

Rose remembered: “When the Duke of Edinburgh passed on, I had an urge to look through my scrap book and reminisce about the time I met him at the TT races in 1968 – and, in typical Prince Philip style, he asked ‘if I ever scraped my bottom on the ground’ as he presented my award. I blushed and replied that the double rubbers protected us quite well.

“What a vivid memory – I was the first woman to take a place on the winner’s rostrum in 65 years of racing. I’d won second place in the sidecar 750cc Race.”

A young Rosetta Barty / Pic supplied by Hanks family

Rose Hanks was born Rosetta Barty, in Bedworth, in 1938. The oldest child, Rose was soon followed by six sisters and two brothers, and it was in her family home where her interest in motorbikes began. “My Dad always had motorbikes, and I started to love them so much I can remember every registration number,” admitted Rose.

“To get away from all the kids at home, I moved to Birmingham. I worked as a gas welder, making hoods for sports cars – but hankered after a bit more excitement in life.

“Then one day a friend, Ken West, took me out to an airfield. He’d bought a scramble outfit and said ‘Rose, come on, sit in and have a try’ – and I never looked back. In that position, low down and keeping the bike balanced, you ‘look forward’ all the time.”

Rose Hanks and Norman Hanks racing / Pic supplied by Hanks family

But as the racing bug took hold, Rose built ambitions that were more than just getting out of the house – and soon she would get to start living her dream.

“My ambition was to ride in the TT. And in the TT Jubilee year, 1967, I got my big break – the chance to ‘passenger’ for a local chap, Norman Hanks. Well, we had engine problems and came 27th, but it turned out the ‘top prize’ was just twelve months away.”

Rose continued: “Dozens of weekends away came and went. Norman and I entered events all over the country – Mallory Park, Brands Hatch, Silverstone, Oulton Park, Cadwell Park – gaining some wins, vital experience, and a few lucky escapes with our lives along the way.

“The word ‘passenger’ might make it sound easy, but I had to lie flat on the straights and put my weight where it was needed on the bends.

“1968 was the first year of the TT’s 750cc Sidecar class and, riding a 750cc BSA with Norman, we came second. Our time for the three laps – 113 miles – was 1.21.44.0, our speed 83.1 mph – only a point or two behind the winners Terry Vinicombe and John Flaxman. I’d secured my place on the winners’ rostrum; I could hardly believe it.

“The other sidecar crews gave me a bouquet and I was taken on to Hillberry to be presented to Prince Philip. The American and Canadian Division of the Women’s International Motorcycle Federation presented me with a trophy too.”

Rose Hanks meeting Prince Phillip / Pic supplied by Hanks family

Despite a recognised dare devil on the track, Rose was to face other obstacles as a woman racing on a notoriously mal dominated track – and racing at a time when conversations about equality in sport were only just beginning to happen.

She remembered: “The headlines that year in the national press wouldn’t go down well nowadays. ‘Housewife stars among the 130 mph men’; ‘A wife doing a man’s job’; ‘A rider for the girls to root for’, and ‘A woman’s world now’.”

But Rose’s legacy lives on, both on the track and at home, inspiring her daughter and granddaughters to compete in motor sports as they grew to love what is now a family tradition.

After her mum passed away, Rose’s daughter Julie Hanks-Elliott, paid a final tribute to LOCAL AMBASSADORS: “When I was born, Dad said perhaps best mum stay home more. I’m not sure if she did, but she made a brilliant job of everything – even when her knees started to go.”

Julie added: “We miss her terribly but are so proud of her achievements. The rest of us live – and still do – within five houses of each other in Erdington. The Hanks-Elliott dynasty will race on. Mum has inspired us all.”

PICTURE GALLERY: Rose Hanks and family

To see more tributes to Rose Hanks, and other members of the TT Riders community, visit www.facebook.com/TTRidersAssociation

For more on the racing activities and achievements of Rose’s granddaughter, Jamie Hanks-Elliot, visit www.facebook.com/hanksracing

To find out more about the LOCAL AMBASSADORS programme, email: [email protected]

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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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FEATURE: “Golden nuggets” – celebrating Erdington’s volunteers and community groups

Introduction by Ed King

Erdington Litter Busters community litter pick / Pic by Ed King

50% of adults across the UK will be volunteering and giving their free time to local endeavours this year, according to a survey conducted by the National Lottery Community Fund. And Erdington is heavily supported by a widespread array of community groups – bolstering the constituency with everything from litter picking to providing mental health care services.

But the line between Birmingham City Council’s civic duty and the goodwill of local residents has never been thinner, with several longstanding volunteers feeling the city should be more involved.

With Volunteer Week 2025 just over six months away, Erdington Local kickstarts a series of stories, features, and profiles celebrating our local volunteers and community groups.

One of the silver linings from the Coronavirus pandemic was the rise in people volunteering and setting up constituted groups, supporting their community with everything from food distribution to art therapy, domestic violence outreach to keeping the High Street safe. Amidst the fear and suffering, the brightest side of human nature also shone – with many individuals and groups continuing their community work well after the masks came down and the High Streets opened back up.

But beneath the altruism and community spirit that brought so much good over recent years, with half the UK population now looking at volunteering and 14% of them doing so for the first time, there is a growing argument that mismanaged local authorities are pulling back on their statutory obligations as prominent community groups pick up the civic slack.

Kaleidoscope volunteer at Central Square, Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King

Volunteer Week 2025 starts in June 2025, where people across the country will be encouraged to throw their hat in the ring and get involved in local agendas for free.

Launching a series of articles on the build up next June, Erdington Local asked some existing volunteers and community groups – many of whom rely on the free time given by others – if they felt their support work was properly appreciated by the local authorities.

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Lemia, The Shed – Elim Life Church: “We are running a community outreach activity which has invited several volunteers and we still need more to function fully. Therefore, we do appreciate the presence of the volunteers.”
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The Recovery Foundation exhibition at Secret Arts Studio Space, Central Square, Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by The Recovery Foundation

Emma Sitole, The Recovery Foundation: “Here at The Recovery Foundation we have seen first-hand how charities and voluntary, grass roots organisations are working hard to support our local community. An already overstretched NHS is struggling to cope with the rise in referrals for mental illness and so the third sector steps up. We see this as a privilege, but it’s not without its challenges.

“To be able to support our community is something we love doing. The Recovery Foundation is built on hope and, to end on our favourite quote ‘Hope, the only thing that by giving away, you get more of.”
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Portland Jones, InkWell: “We provide writing sessions for people in recovery from addictions, trauma or life-changing events. What we offer is a different way of meeting people; it is recreational but with additional benefits. It’s a new hobby, a new outlet. Our byline is sharing strength through writing.

“Do we pick up the slack left by other providers? I think what we do is supplement what others do. This is almost a continuation of the recovery process, meeting with people with the same lived experience, who fully understand what you are going through.”
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Adam Khan at LGBTQ+ rally in Mexico / Pic supplied by Adam Khan

Adam Khan, LBGT+ activist: “Volunteering helps empower communities to overcome barriers and inaction from other providers and institutions creatively.

“Volunteering helps with community cohesion as it builds trust within the community, and often provides the catalyst needed to provide much-needed provisions for communities, especially for those who feel that they have been left behind due to austerity or lack of commitment from local authorities and the government.”
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First meeting on Save Short Heath Playing Fields campaign, on Short Heath Playing Fields / Pic by Ed King

Stephen Hughes, Short Heath Fields Trust: “We have only secured a one-year licence with Birmingham Education Department… under this licence Shirt Heath Fields Trust (SHFT), in partnership with FC Elite, now cut the grass, paint the lines and maintain the playing fields. But still, due to Birmingham City Council’s financial situation, we are waiting and fighting to secure the long-term future of Short Heath Playing Fields (SHPF).

“Local councillors Jane Jones and Amar Khan (Stockland Green, Labour) and neighbouring councillor Jilly Bermingham (Perry Common, Labour) say they’re supporting what SHFT are doing at Bleak Hill Park and SHPF, but what are they actually doing?

“The simple answer is nothing, while SHFT is working hard to develop sport and secure the future of SHPF and struggle to raise funding because we don’t have a long-term lease, these councillors have done nothing.”
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Rev. Emma Sykes by St Barnabas Church, Erdington High Street – Pic by Ed King

Rev. Emma Sykes, St Barnabas Church: “We are consistently seeing an increase in numbers of people accessing our community hub for support and signposting to other agencies and support services. There are several areas where we pick up the slack.

“We are constantly dealing with and supporting people with complex mental health issues. We provide a place where [addiction] support services can come and meet with their service users – we are able to provide a safe and free meeting point.

“We are often engaging with both the victims and perpetrators of anti-social behaviour and are able to liaise with the police to aid in reporting offences.

“We regularly are engaging with people who need help with poor housing – SIFA are based with us most Friday afternoons to offer housing support – and our Friday Warm Welcome attendance has increased significantly over the last few weeks and we envisage it will increase further as the colder weather sets in.”
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Harold MacDonald-Taylor (3rd right) with Erdington Walking Group (EWG) at Perry Common Library / Pic supplied by EWG

Harold MacDonald-Taylor, volunteer: “I recently volunteered to help out with ‘tarting up’ the outside of the old Erdington Swimming Baths, with Witton Lodge Community Association – who paid for all the materials, wooden planters, soil, bark, plants, shrubs, floor chippings, paint, brushes, etc.

“As well as enjoying the fresh air, exercise, and general banter with the other volunteers, I couldn’t help but notice just how many passersby would go out of their way to come over and say thanks for our efforts.”
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Cathy Crossley, Arts All Over the Place: “There are at least three volunteers working away each week, setting up, making tea, welcoming folk and clearing up. Some teach skills to others, from crochet, to how to manage their phone etc.

“The volunteers say it’s a great way of building their confidence and helping them gain experience which could be included on a job application.”
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Evening of Creativity live streaming at Secret Arts Studio Space, Central Square, Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King

Jobe Sullivan, Ceol Agency: “We’ve had some volunteers who have donated 100s of hours over the seven years I’ve been around. That being said, sometimes just one volunteer donating one hour, or literally donating resources, can give you such an incredible will and desire to keep going and can really rally the group.”

“Volunteers that come to mind are Rob Tanley for his tireless work setting up the Erdington Traditional Irish Music Sessions, Mig Braithwaite (sp) for extending this into another, first Sunday session, and Tamara Francis, one of our longest serving camera-volunteers. That’s regular, monthly graft for the community.”
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Zuzanna Kiewel, POMOC: “POMOC, a non-profit organisation that organised Eastern European migrants towards justice, safety and community cohesion.

“We have been slowly building our base of Polish migrants in Erdington, aiming to develop a campaign that would eventually involve all residents and create bridges for understanding between different marginalised groups.”
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Fundraising at Erdington Court Bowls Club / Pic supplied by Erdington Court Bowls Club

Ray Woods, Erdington Court Bowls Club: “To me volunteers are golden nuggets. They should be treated with respect – and a thank you costs nothing.

“Our Club has no paid staff – we are all volunteers. Some do more than others, but every little bit of help counts when you have a large facility like ours to run.

“At a time when City Council facilities are being cut back, more volunteers than ever are needed in all sorts of ways in the community – including our Club.
“Volunteering can be a great way for younger helpers to build up their CV’s for future employment.”
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Erdington Litter Busters community litter pick / Pic by Ed King

Erdington Litter Busters: “Volunteering is not only good for the community but can improve a person’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. It encourages someone to learn new skills, to make new friends and above all to give something back to society.

“Getting out into the local area will develop a sense of connection to others, enhance one’s confidence, improve how things work for the better and above all, show commitment.”

PICTURE GALLERY: Community groups and volunteers from across the Erdington constituency

Erdington Local is looking to expand its network of COMMUNITY ANCHORS, volunteers, and community groups. If you are an active member of the local community we want to hear from you.

Please email our Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS correspondent, Hema Chumber: [email protected]

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FEATURE: “Libraries are so much more than just books,” Erdington rallies to support libraries across the constituency

Words by Ed King / Pics provided by Cllr Welch and Erdington Walking Group – with extra taken from archives

On 27 September, the final consultation period for the future of Birmingham libraries will come to an end – before Birmingham City Council finalise their plans for the future of the city’s Library Service.

Across the Erdington constituency there are four libraries, providing valuable resources for local residents and school children in and around Castle Vale, Kingstanding, Perry Common, and Erdington Town Centre.

But after the end of September the fate of these centres for learning and community will be in the hands of the Council financiers – as city officers look to save £2,300,000 from the library budget.

Erdington Local talked to those who have been championing the need to support our libraries and takes a look at what the future could hold after the Council’s consultation campaign draws to a close.

“Libraries are so much more than just books,” declares Kingstanding Councillor Clifton Welch. “They are at the centre of any local community. We must do everything possible to keep Kingstanding Library open.”

It’s a familiar battle cry, as local campaigners and politicians alike have been championing the need for libraries in their communities across the city – following the announcement by Birmingham City Council (BCC) that a citywide public consultation would be held to “help shape the future of the library service for Birmingham.”

“Help shape” might sound cordial, but the reality is the Council need to save £2,300,300 from the city’s library budget – which currently supports 35 community libraries, a mobile library, a home library service, and the Library of Birmingham. And when the biggest spend is on community library staff, amounting to £4,100,000 – nearly double the Council’s savings target – people’s work lives are literally on the line.

Local Authorities across the UK are bound by law “to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service for all persons” under their governorship, as per the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964.

But Birmingham City Council is broke, after haemorrhaging undisclosed millions on a defunct IT system (the official count is at £139m but many sources feel it could be considerably higher) and being found legally liable for more hundreds of millions in Equal Pay Liabilities across its significant workforce.

And whilst books don’t cost megabucks, people who work for you do – and the buildings you keep both of them in could be worth a few bob if they happened to become apartments.

So, in April 2024, a financially bludgeoned Birmingham City Council launched a public consultation and explored ways to cut costs to the library service of nearly two and half million. Proposals included permanently closing libraries, partnering with local stakeholders to run them, and turning them into Library Community Hubs providing other community services.

There is also the option to relocate the existing library and end up with an empty building or two, which is never a bad thing when you’re trying to sell off assets and realise Council equity. But as with the 21% rise in Council Tax, many felt the people who live in the city were once again set to suffer whilst they cleaned up the mess of the people who run the city. And sufficed to say, it made them angry.

“One of my campaign promises was to take the fight to save Kingstanding Library to the very heart of the Council chamber,” continues Cllr Clifton Welch. “In my maiden speech I was proud to formally second a Conservative motion to save libraries across Birmingham.”

He continues: “Since being elected, it has come as a shock every month to see Labour councillors in the chamber bring forward petitions from their residents campaigning to keep open their local libraries, and yet every single Labour councillor has voted to support the closure of libraries across Birmingham at every opportunity they have been given in the Council chamber.”

Erdington Local has not been able to verify these claims, but the rush by councillors across the city to be seen on social media championing their local libraries did become somewhat comical. All of a sudden, as the clarion call reached fever pitch, councillor’s social media threads were full of selfies with a pensioner or a school child holding a book. And if you didn’t have a library in your own political ward, then borrow one from a colleague.

However, there are those with more longstanding political skin in the library game. Oscott’s Cllr Barbara Dring (Labour), who has been the ward’s elected official since 2004, has been vocal about importance of Kingstanding Library for many years.

During the last Birmingham City Council consultation on its Library Service, which finished in January 2017, Cllr Dring helped generate funds and secure its future through a partnership with Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) – who were looking to deliver services from both Perry Common and Kingstanding Libraries.

Speaking at the Kingstanding Library relaunch event in 2017, Cllr Dring tells: “I’m absolutely delighted to have led on this project for Kingstanding Library, the money put into it has regenerated this library and also Perry Common Library.”

She adds: “The library is at the heart of the community and by doing what we’re doing we have put other services into the library which has enabled us to keep this library alive.”

As part of BCC’s current consultation, “opportunities to work with partners” are being explored as part of Library Services’ ongoing delivery strategy. There are also proposals for 10 Community Library Hubs – one in each constituency – which will provide a range of services from money advice and food pantries, to digital inclusion support and computer access.

Plus, the involvement of external organisations could alleviate the staff costs currently incurred by BCC. This may mean redundancies or loss of working hours for those currently on the Council’s payroll, but BCC promise the Community Library Hubs “could be open on a full-time basis (35 hours per week)”.

WLCA have come to the Council’s bricks and mortar rescue on a few occasions, from their renovation of the crumbling Gatekeeper’s Cottage at Witton Lakes into a well-used Eco Hub, to the recent project to turn the old swimming baths on Erdington High Street into an Enterprise Hub.

And their involvement in Kingstanding Library and Perry Common Library, alongside that of Spitfire Services with Castle Vale Library, have arguably saved three out of four of the constituency’s libraries.

As WLCA Chief Officer, Afzal Hussain, tells Erdington Local: “Our local libraries are an essential part of the social fabric of our community, offering a lifeline for people to connect, learn and access vital support services.”

He adds: “WLCA is committed to maintaining our collaboration with local libraries to secure their long-term viability for future generations.”

But the beating heart of community often comes from the people marching the ground. And, in Erdington at least, none are more committed to both than Erdington Walking Group (EWG) founder Selina Gooden, who recently organised a round trip walk from Erdington Library to Perry Common Library to encourage people to take part in the Council consultation and to champion the importance of libraries to the community.

The walk was also to celebrate 90 years since the opening of Perry Common Library and organised for the day of the anniversary.

Alongside her passion for health and social inclusion, Selina is also a songwriter and poet, which (mirroring the sentiments of Jack Reacher novelist Lee Childs) came from her salad days devouring poetry.

“Where did I go to find such poetry books…?” tells Selina. “The library. As a child I had no idea what would become of my love for poetry, how it would help me create so many songs and poems – all thanks to the library.”

She adds: “Libraries are incredibly important, because not only do they provide resources and services for literacy and education, but they also help us to expand our network – which goes a long way where connectedness is concerned.”

The EWG walk between the two libraries gained a lot of local attention and support, with Selina recounting “a real sense of unity and pride” between those involved – even picking up some library staff members along the way, who joined the EWG in solidarity.

But the opportunity to “help shape” the future of Birmingham’s Library Services is still on the table, through the face to face consultation sessions or the Council’s own online questionnaire.

“All our libraries are faced with a challenging financial situation and are now required to make considerable budget savings… which will affect all who live, work and/or study in Birmingham.

“Now you have the chance to shape a better Library Service that will benefit you and people across our city for years to come,” adds Selina.

“The consultation outcomes will help inform decisions taken by the Council after it has ended. Please don’t let this opportunity pass you by, have your say before it’s too late.”

The last face to face library consultation in Erdington will be at Perry Common Library on 23 September. Birmingham City Council’s questionnaire will be online until 27 September at: www.birminghambeheard.org.uk

(Ed’s note – this feature was first published in the Erdington Local printed edition dated September/October ’24.

The original feature references Witton Lodge Community Association/WLCA as being involved in the “the running of Kingstanding Library” – whereas WLCA were in fact delivering services from the library, after a partnership with Birmingham City Council Libraries Team in 2017.

Erdington Local issues a full apology for any misrepresentation in the original feature. For further information and to see the source material used, please click here. )

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FEATURE: Eco Together in Erdington, inspiring environmental action across the city at Witton Lakes Eco Hub

Words Ed King / Pics by Ewan Williamson

On 27 January 2024, the Bath born and Birmingham adopted Eco Together project celebrated a year of inspiring independent environmental action in and around Erdington – including a specially designed ten week course at the Eco Hub with Witton Lodge Community Association.

Erdington Local went to watch Eco Together cut the cake at the Witton Lakes ecological and community hub – and to hear how the Erdington held course has started a ripple effect of change across the city.

“…people have the power to create the change. It’s just the law of numbers; there’s way more of us.”

The room is full – of both people and passion. But also hope and ambition. Eco Together has been running courses across Birmingham for a year, brought to the second city by Stephanie Boyle – a retired clinical psychologist who found Eco Together whilst researching climate change online.

Starting in Bath, Eco Together works on a micro effecting macro approach, encouraging ‘small groups of friends, neighbours or colleagues’ to come together and realise the ‘powers’ they have in tackling climate change and environmental issues. And at this special anniversary celebration the energy in the room is palpable.

The Eco Hub, located at Witton Lakes, a converted century old gatekeeper’s cottage with ecological issues literally at its foundations, hosted the longest running Birmingham based Eco Together course – evolving the standard five week open platform programme into a special ten week series of workshops and group discussions.

Developed by Stephanie Boyle from the open source material offered by Eco Together, the extended course was commissioned at the request of Witton Lodge Community Association, who also built the Eco Hub. A group of about nine local residents met up every week to discuss environmental issues and to look beyond the bigger picture and ask what they, as individuals, could do to make change.

“It made me feel confident that I could do something,” explains Pauline Brown, who attended the Eco Together course earlier in the year. “As an individual you care about the climate and pollution, and you try and do your best, but you feel like you’re just a little isolated person trying.”

Campaigners worldwide, especially when dealing with worldwide problems, often cite those first few steps as the most daunting.

“But when it came to the (Eco Together) course I was with others who were interested,” adds Pauline, “and those ‘powers’, that’s what really got me – how you can communicate, your advocacy, and talk about it (environmental issues) to other people fires you up with ideas… you bounce of each other.”

“It was useful as a way of discussing what options are available to you as an individual,” adds Nettes Derbyshire – who attended a five week programme run with Shakti Women in Birmingham City Centre.

“I mean, there are things that I knew. But it really challenges you to say ‘well what are you going to do about that?’ and look at what little difference you can make – and to actually go away with something each week and say ‘I’m going to try and do that’.

“(The course) really opened my eyes to my own advocacy, and how you really can shout at the people to do things and really encourage the Local Authority, or whomever it is, and just keep on picking at it until they get it… and hope that they do.”

The ‘powers’ are the main tenet of Eco Together, and like every good collection of cornerstones there are four of them: lifestyle, communication, community, and advocacy.

Started by Sarah Grimes – who graduated with Distinction from Oxford University after reading Environmental Policy and who has worked in, around, and against local government for over 25 years – Eco Together uses these ‘powers’ to galvanise the strength of the individual and to show the simple steps one person can take to chip away at worldwide wall of ignorance and inertia.

Cleaning behind your fridge, for example, saves significant home energy use. It’s hard to think of anything more immediate and simple, but also exponential. Eco Together came from the Transition Bath project that saw around 500 households ‘cut an average of £570 from their annual bills and 1.3 tonnes from their carbon footprint,’ – and that figure of 500 households started with one.

Not bad for a community led charity, and one that proved so effective it started to grab the attention of Councils and Local Authorities across the county.

“It’s amazing, absolutely amazing,” tells Sarah Grimes – after thanking the Birmingham crowd for their involvement over the past twelve months and their ambitions for the next. “And what it shows to me is that the format can adapt to lots of different circumstance and lots of different ways of working.”

Sarah continues: “Initially it was thought of being just a neighbourhood group, but here (Birmingham – Eco Hub) it’s been run as a course, it’s been run by community groups, by organisations, with staff.

“And that shows that the main tenant of Eco Together is the ‘powers’. So, this is a slightly different framing to how we’re used to thinking about environmental issues, and thinking my powers go beyond the ability to choose one product over another product – they actually go into what do I do with the communities I’m in. What do I do, as a citizen, to represent to politicians and businesses. And whether or not I talk about climate change.

 “All of those things are things you can do to make an impact, and that principle can really be used with any issue and with any group of people. And that’s what happening here, which is so exciting.”

It’s a simple premise, but it works. In Birmingham, for example, Eco Together is now being looked at to help support the city’s Net Zero agenda and cut its emissions down to ‘zero or as close as possible to prevent further temperature increases’ – beating the Government benchmark by two decades.

In less than twelve months a handful of people, attending free to access workshops in and around Erdington, have shown the city how it can be done. And the city took note.

“We were invited to a specific session about community action, I think it was about week five,” tells Stockland Green Councillor Jane Jones (Labour), who attended one of the workshops where the power of ‘advocacy’ was on the table – alongside her Perry Common counterpart, Councillor Jilly Bermingham.

“But we were really impressed,” Cllr Jones continues. “We saw the training manual and it was really thorough. I learnt loads just reading one part of it. It was excellent, and the turnout… there were so many people there as well, and they were really interested in the environment.

“It didn’t matter where you were on the scale of knowledge, it really opened people’s eyes. Some people knew absolutely nothing (about environmental issues) and started from scratch, then there were people with more experience and still got something out if it. I certainly did.”

Bringing truth to power can be notoriously tricky, especially when the problem at hand is such a worldwide issue and local government is, well, local. But can the approach from groups like Eco Together actually have an impact, can an individual’s advocacy on an issue tun the relevant responsible authority heads?

“We encourage (local advocacy) that’s why we have open advice bureau,” tells Cllr Bermingham, “because we’re encouraging people to come and talk to us and tell us their issues. I’ve had people come and talk to me about community garden and women’s groups… everything. And they’re the advocates coming to me and pushing their groups, and that’s important.

“It’s all the things joining up. None of us can do it on our own.”

Cllr Jones, never one to duck a tough question, adds: “Whatever the policies the Council have, we’re not always very good at following them through. So, we need keeping on our toes.”

Eco Together in Erdington, anniversary celebration at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Ewan Williamson

For more on Eco Together visit www.ecotogether.info

For more on the Eco Hub and other projects delivered by Witton Lodge Community Association visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

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FEATURE: Erdington renters facing millions in extra energy costs as the government scraps efficiency plans

Words by Ed King and Josh Neicho

People renting private accommodation in Erdington could have paid out over £1.1million in extra energy costs this winter, after the Government scrapped plans to force landlords to up their energy efficiency standards – according to research by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU).

The legislative U-turn was announced in a press release issued by Downing Street before Christmas, outlining several points where the Prime Minister has “revised plans” previously set for the UK to challenge climate change and to reach net zero by 2050.

According to the United Nations, whose member states made collective promises on environmental issues in the 2015 Paris Agreement, net zero means “cutting greenhouse gas emissions to as close to zero as possible” – and to a level where any remaining emissions can be naturally “re-absorbed from the atmosphere”.

Amongst these commitments, the UK pledged to introduce new legislation that would force all privately rented tenancies to carry an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above by 2028 – bringing their properties in line with the most energy efficient systems and reducing bills for renters.

However, under new plans announced by the Prime Minister in late 2023, the Government has now stated it will: “Scrap policies to force landlords to upgrade the energy efficiency of their properties” but would “instead continue to encourage households to do so where they can.”

In new analysis, published by the ECIU, it was found that 73% of private rented homes in Erdington currently carry an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or lower – meaning the new laws would have forced an upgrade in thousands of homes across the constituency and made their energy consumption cost less.

With improved energy systems, and based on figures from energy ombudsman Ofgem and net zero consultants Cornwall Insight, the ECIU estimate Erdington renters could save up to £26million in energy costs by 2050 if all homes carried an EPC rating between A-C.

The ECIU further calculated private renters across the constituency missed out on £1.1million in potential savings over the 2023/24 winter months alone.

Other policy shifts made in the Government’s statement include pulling back on their proposed ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, and extending the deadline for homeowners to install more energy efficient boilers.

The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calls the new plans a “fairer” approach to the UK’s commitment to becoming net zero by 2050, insisting the UK will still meet its targets for 2030 and 2035 and the revised agenda is “a pragmatic, proportionate and realistic path”.

Organisations representing private landlords have also welcomed the changes, with Ben Thompson, Deputy CEO at Mortgage Advice Bureau, highlighting the “pressing timelines” many were under to retrofit new energy systems. 

Environmental and social activists, however, have challenged the Government’s revised plans – arguing they renege on the UK’s previous promises to effectively challenge climate change, and leave individual households paying hundreds more in their annual energy bills.

Paul Barnes, regional organiser for community union ACORN West Midlands, believes private households will bear the brunt of the Government’s shift in policy.

He said: “Tenants in the UK are facing an impossible challenge of rising costs and stagnant wages. The government’s decision to row back on its commitments for landlords to increase the energy efficiency of homes will push renters and our members further into poverty.

“With growing issues of rent increase linked with increasing energy costs, many of our members are already having to make impossible choices. We demand that the UK Government brings back its commitments to increased energy efficiency.”

Jess Ralston, Energy Analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, added: “Private renters include some of the most vulnerable people in society, such as those with a long-term illness or disability and low-income families. There’s no two ways about it, they will be made colder and poorer by scrapping these standards.

“The Prime Minister has essentially picked the landlord over the renter with his U-turn, in a move that makes no sense to fuel poverty charities or to energy companies alike.”

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, or want more information about your rights and responsibilities over domestic energy use, contact Ofgem via www.ofgem.gov.uk

for more from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit visit www.eciu.net