(**Ed’s note… this column was first published on Friday 17 October in the Erdington Local print edition.)
I am proud to share some fantastic news for our community. After months of campaigning, we have secured £20 million of long-term investment for Kingstanding through Labour’s Plan for Neighbourhoods.
This means £2 million a year for the next decade, going directly into the priorities that matter most to local people, whether that’s improving facilities, supporting community groups, creating opportunities for young people, or making our streets safer, cleaner, and stronger.
When I was elected, I promised to fight for investment after the Conservatives snubbed us with the Levelling Up Fund – twice.
Having already secured nearly £1 million for Operation Fearless in Erdington, I was determined that our area would not be overlooked again. This £20 million is the result of that fight, and today, we can proudly say our persistence has paid off.
But the real work starts now. The most important question is, how should this money be spent?
I want Kingstanding residents to lead the way so we can shape this investment around our community’s real needs. Whether it’s upgrading play areas, tackling anti-social behaviour, backing small businesses, this must be your decision.
For too long, communities like ours have been ignored. Labour is changing that by giving power back to local people. This £20 million is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and I will work side by side with you to ensure your priorities lead the way.
This is our chance to rebuild pride, tackle long-standing challenges, and create better opportunities for the next generation.
Sergeant Gary Grove standing by police vehicle on Erdington High Street / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
Words by Sgt Gary Grove – Erdington High Street police team
We’re so grateful for the help and support we get from our volunteers in Erdington, that I wanted to explain more about how we work in partnership with them to keep the area safe.
Our StreetWatch volunteers regularly head out with officers, chatting with residents and offering a reassuring presence. Just recently, they stepped in to help someone during a medical emergency – staying with them until help arrived. That kind of care really shows the heart of our community.
We also have SpeedWatch groups made up of local residents who work with us to tackle speeding. We’ve invested in new equipment to support them, and if speeding is something you’re worried about in your area, please do get in touch so we can look to address it.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering and can spare just a couple of hours a week, we’d love to hear from you. You can drop us a line at [email protected]
Meanwhile, our neighbourhood team is continuing to act on what matters most to you. We’ve recently arrested a suspected drug dealer in The Gardens and seized cannabis from a vehicle linked to drugs.
We’re also working closely with Operation Fearless and Trading Standards to crack down on illegal goods being sold on the High Street – seizing several items as part of our ongoing efforts.
As always, if there’s anything you’re worried about or if you have any information to share, please feel free to contact us.
(l-r) Inspector Forder, Sergeant Price, and Paulette Hamilton MP on Slade Road in Stockland Green / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Words by Paulette Hamilton MP
I hope you’re all making the most of the sunny summer break, spending precious time with your family and loved ones. While Parliament is in recess, my focus remains firmly on the issues that matter most to our communities in Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.
Recently, I joined Inspector Forder and Sergeant Price on Slade Road in Stockland Green, speaking directly with residents and traders about crime and anti-social behaviour.
I’ve pushed for visible patrols, targeted interventions, and faster response times, because your safety is simply non-negotiable. Our local police team is stepping up efforts, but I’ll keep fighting to ensure every part of our community feels safe and secure.
The fight to revitalise Erdington High Street continues. Following the success of Operation Fearless, now a national model for tackling crime, I’m working with Birmingham City Council to explore regeneration opportunities.
(l-r) Paulette Hamilton MP, Andrew Linhop – BCC Principal Planning Officer on Erdington High Street / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
AThat’s why I recently met with a member of their planning team to discuss a better vision for our high street. We need new developments that deliver jobs, affordable spaces for local businesses, and real community benefits, not empty promises.
On the Conker Island campaign in Kingstanding, we’ve secured a council site visit. I’ll be working with the Friends of Conker Island to arrange a meeting with officers and explore how we can improve this precious green space.
Finally, I’m hosting coffee mornings in Pype Hayes and Perry Common this month, so please keep an eye out for details. Wishing you all a wonderful summer!
Paulette Hamilton MP with officers at Erdington Police Station / Photography supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Words by Paulette Hamilton MP
(Ed’s note… this column was written the June/July Erdington Local newspaper and first published, in print, on Thursday 12 June.)
This month, I’ve been standing up for our community, putting Erdington on the national stage in Parliament, while standing shoulder to shoulder with local volunteers and campaigners at home.
In Westminster, I led a debate on police presence, shining a spotlight on Operation Fearless, our local success story. Since securing £880,000 from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, this initiative has led to 140 arrests, and helped reduce antisocial behaviour on Erdington High Street.
It’s a model other MPs are now looking to replicate in their own constituencies. But our work doesn’t stop here. I’ll keep pushing for the long-term investment we need to regenerate our town centre and support safer streets.
Paulette Hamilton MP meeting residents at Erdington Methodist Church / Photograph supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Back in Erdington, it was a pleasure to meet residents at my recent coffee morning at Erdington Methodist Church. These events are a brilliant way to share updates and listen to your concerns. I look forward to welcoming residents at the next one in Pype Hayes!
I’m also proud that our petition to improve Kingstanding’s Conker Island Park has now passed 150 signatures. In partnership with the Friends of Conker Island, we’re calling on the council to repair play equipment, install bins, and tackle antisocial behaviour, because every child deserves a safe place to play.
And finally, I was delighted to join the police and volunteers at Erdington Police Station to thank them for their service. Their dedication keeps us safe.
From Erdington and Kingstanding to Castle Vale and South Oscott, our strength is in our people. Let’s keep moving forward.
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless
Operation Fearless has made a significant impact on Erdington High Street since it launched in January this year, with 140 people arrested so far and the seizure of dangerous weapons and hard drugs from in and around Erdington Town Centre.
West Midlands Police have also now established a dedicated Erdington High Street police team, with a Sergeant leading six officers focused on crime and anti-social behaviour in the retail and shopping hub.
Giving Erdington Local readers the latest information on the special policing initiative, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro – the officer leading the Operation Fearless team – has a direct update for Erdington locals and residents.
Words by DSI Jim Munro / Pics supplied by Operation Fearless
Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
“We’ve made a really big step in making Erdington High Street a safer place. Since January, we’ve arrested over 140 people. This is a huge number and shows that we’re really listening to what you’ve been telling us.
“You were worried, and rightly so, about feeling unsafe walking down the High Street. You told us about shops being targeted, about drugs causing problems, and about the fear of violence. We heard you loud and clear.
“We’ve also taken dangerous weapons off the streets of Erdington before they could do any harm, seizing a live firearm, a zombie knife and multiple other weapons in separate incidents.
“We’ve arrested dangerous individuals for a whole range of offences including – robbery, burglary, assault, shop theft and much more. Other successful arrests saw one man arrested for child sex offences, and another for domestic kidnap.
Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King
“This success isn’t just because of the police. It’s because of you, the people who live here in Erdington.
“You called us when you saw something suspicious, you shared information with us, and you trusted us to do our jobs. Without your help, without you being our eyes and ears on the ground, we couldn’t have achieved this. We’re so thankful for all your support.
“And the good news doesn’t stop there. We’re hearing from you that things are changing. You’re telling us you feel safer in the area and businesses are noticing a real difference too. That’s exactly the kind of change we wanted to see.
“But we know we can’t stop now. We need to keep this momentum going, keep pushing for a safer Erdington. That’s why we’re putting a dedicated High Street team in place.
DSI Munro, PCC Simon Foster, Paulette Hamilton MP talking to staff in Iceland on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
“At the end of March, I had the privilege of walking the High Street with MP Paulette Hamilton and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster. We discussed the progress and future plans for Op Fearless.
“We all agree that while we’ve made strides, there’s still more to be done. Regeneration takes time, and we’re committed to tackling crime and making Erdington a place where everyone feels safe and proud.
“I’m optimistic about the future, especially with the collaboration we’re building between the new High Street team, the council, BID, and our security partners.
Erdington Police Station on Sutton New Road / Photgraph by Ed King
“The new team, consisting of six officers and a Sergeant, will be a constant presence on the High Street. They’ll be walking the streets daily, engaging with residents, and ensuring a visible and reassuring presence. Their focus will be on building relationships and maintaining a safe environment for everyone.
“As the Fearless team prepares to move to its next location at the end of this month, please know that our commitment to Erdington remains strong.
“While the team will be physically moving, we’ll continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained efforts to reduce crime.
Police tape on Erdington High Street as officers conduct investigation / Photograph by Ed King
“We know how important it is for you to stay informed about what’s happening in your community. That’s why we’re changing things up a bit. We want to keep that line of communication open and strong. So, from now on, you’ll be hearing directly from the person leading the charge on the High Street.
“I’m delighted to announce that I’ll be handing over this column to Sergeant Gary Grove, who will be heading up the new High Street team. They’ll be your go to source for updates on the work being done in the area.
“I encourage you all to engage with Sergeant Grove and their team. Share your feedback, voice your concerns, and continue to be an active part of making Erdington better.
(Left) Drugs seized by officers during search of Kenyjah James car and residential address, (right) Kenyjah James following arrest for possession with intent to supply / Pics supplied by West Midlands Police
An Erdington drug dealer has been jailed for possession with intent to supply Class A narcotics including crack cocaine and heroin, taking thousands of pounds of dangerous drugs off the streets.
The arrest and processing through the courts comes as the Operation Fearless policing initiative continues to clampdown on crime in Erdington Town Centre – working alongside the recently introduced Erdington High Street police team and local partners.
Appearing before Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 10 April, Kenyjah James, aged 25, pleaded guilty to the charges against him and was sentenced to four years in prison – avoiding a longer term for a crime that could have seen him face life imprisonment, based on the amount of drugs and his role within the supply chain.
Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
Operation Fearless and High Street officers apprehended James after responding to reports of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour on Tuesday 25 February, after the police were alerted to a man damaging a car park gate.
Whilst attending the scene, officers detained James and searched his vehicle – discovering around 190 ‘wraps’ of both cocaine and heroin and two mobile phones, with potential links to a drug dealing operation.
Following a further search of his home address, police officers discovered yet more Class A and Class B narcotics and charged James with possession and intent to supply a controlled substance.
Sign outside Birmingham Crown Court / Photgraph by Ed King
After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midlands Polcie confirmed: “A man [has] been jailed for drug offences after he was arrested by our Operation Fearless officers in Erdington.
“Kenyjah James, aged 25, was sentenced to four years in prison when appeared at Birmingham Crown Court last Thursday (10 April).”
They added: “He had pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing Class A drugs including crack cocaine and heroin, with intent to supply.
“The drugs were… confirmed as being approximately 190 wraps of cocaine and heroin, with an estimated value of around £2,000.”
Operation Fearless has been in action across Erdington Town Centre since January 2025, making over 140 arrests (at the time of writing) and stamping down on crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail district.
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
Handing over from the main Operation Fearless team, as they begin to deploy officers in other hot spots across the city, Erdington High Street has also welcomed a dedicated police team – including a Seargent and six uniformed officers that will focus on crime in and around the Town Centre.
The Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) is also “beefing up” their High Street security and leading a High Street Community Team of local partners and community groups, to further support the incoming High Street police team and retail hub.
A spokesperson from the Erdington BID told: “The extra policing we’ve seen this year, under Operation Fearless and now with the new High Street police team, has made a significant impact on the crime in Erdington Town Centre – but it needs our support to make it last.
Rainbow falls on Erdington Town Centre sign by Six Ways Island / Photograph by Ed King
“We will be beefing up our High Street security, who have a strong relationship with the retail community here and know many of the repeat offenders – and who can directly support both the Operation Fearless and new High Street police team through joint patrols and intelligence sharing.
“We will also be establishing a High Street Community Team, made up of local community groups and volunteers – to help with everything from supporting a series of family friendly events on the High Street, to litter picking and looking after the green spaces.”
They added: “Erdington High Street was once one of the busiest in the city, and whilst many businesses have moved online we still want a Town Centre that is a vibrant and family friendly place to shop and socialise.
“Following in the footsteps of Operation Fearless, the new dedicated High Street police team – supported by our Street Wardens and local community groups – gives us a chance to break the cycle of crime and make a real and lasting change in the heart of Erdington.”
To find out more about working with the Erdington Business Improvement District to support the High Street and Town Centre email: [email protected]
Rainbow reflection on Erdington Town Centre sign near Six Ways Island / Photograph taken by Ed King
Erdington Town Centre has been allocated its own dedicated High Street police team to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail hotspot.
Working alongside the Operation Fearless policing initiative, the Erdington High Street police team will bring six constables, led by Sergeant Gary Grove, to the Town Centre – creating “a high visibility presence on the High Street to tackle the issues that matter to residents, shoppers and traders”, according to a West Midlands Police spokesperson.
The officers will also work with the Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) Street Wardens, conducting joint patrols on the High Street and sharing intelligence about criminal activity and regular offenders in the area.
Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street as part of Operation Fearless / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police)
The team will also work alongside local partners including Birmingham City Council and Transport for West Midlands, to further tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and build on the work already being delivered by the responsible authorities.
The dedicated Erdington High Street police force, led by Sgt Grove, has been operational since 4 April, working in tandem with the Operation Fearless team to share information and continue the “sustained effort to reduce crime” in the retail hub.
Alongside the 140 arrests made by the Operation Fearless, Sgt Grove’s new High Street police team have made a further 17 arrests in the past few weeks – keeping the pressure on criminals who have operated in the area, including those involved in drug dealing and shoplifting.
Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King
Sergeant Gary Grove told: “It’s clear to see the difference [Operation] Fearless has made to Erdington, and we’re committed to building on that.
“Myself and my colleagues have experience working as part of the Erdington Impact Area team – and we’re working hard to build on existing relationships around the area.”
Underlining the importance of working with Erdington locals, the business community, and the wider general public visiting the area, Sgt Grove added: “If you’re out and about in Erdington or have any concerns you’d like to discuss, please come and say hello to us.”
The Erdington BID is also currently establishing a High Street Community Support Team to work alongside Sgt Grove and his team – made up of local volunteers and community groups and addressing non-response issues.
The Erdington BID High Street Community Support Team will be investing more into High Street security, and offering help with activities including consumer and visitor advice, litter picking, maintaining the High Street’s green spaces, and helping busy businesses report lower level crimes.
A spokesperson for the Erdington BID, who act as the link between the local police and retail community, told: “Erdington High Street needs a constant, uniformed, public facing police presence – with the power to arrest criminals and process them to the courts – and having a dedicated High Street police team will be a huge support to the local business community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sergeant Grove and his team to the area and offer our full support.”
They added: “Operation Fearless, and now Sgt Grove and his High Street police team, have given Erdington a real chance to properly challenge the criminal activity in Erdington Town Centre – but we can all help.
“If we want to keep the crime away, and to further deter those repeat offenders who have got away with too much for too long, it should be a team effort. If you live or work in Erdington, or just want to help make a difference to our Town Centre, then please get in touch about joining [the Erdington BID] High Street Community Support Team.”
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless
Operation Fearless was launched in January 2025, bringing a dedicated team of 20 officers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour into Erdington Town Centre.
The initiative was supported by £880,000 from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, as allocated by the Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster – who has been a regular visitor to Erdington Town Centre, meeting with both businesses and the general public on the High Street.
Led by Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, the Operation Fearless team have made over 140 arrests [at the time of writing] and seized an array of contraband off the Erdington streets – including an arsenal of offensive weapons, and illegal drugs worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
As the Operation Fearless team start to hand over to Sgt Grove and the High Street police team, alongside the pre-existing Neighbourhood Police Team (NPT) that covers Erdington Town Centre, a WMP spokesperson confirmed: “The [Operation] Fearless team will continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained effort to reduce crime.”
Detective Superintendent Jim Munro added: “The new dedicated High Street team will be a constant presence in the area, and although Fearless is expanding to a new location – our Fearless officers will be using their impressive local and operational knowledge to support them.”
Paulette Hamilton MP with police on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Three years ago, when I was first elected, I made a promise, to tackle the crime and antisocial behaviour plaguing Erdington High Street.
Today, I’m proud to report that Operation Fearless, launched in January with £880,000 in funding from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, is delivering incredible results.
At my latest High Street meeting, Inspector Shameem Ahmed provided a detailed update on multiple arrests and seizures – proof that our community’s persistence is paying off.
Traders who once lived in fear now speak of real transformation, something I saw firsthand during my walkabout with Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster and DS Jim Munro last week.
Paulette Hamilton MP with Inspector Shameem Ahmed at a meeting about crime on Erdington High Street, held at St Barnabas Church / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
But while we celebrate progress, we cannot ignore the recent knife attack in Kingstanding. My heart goes out to the victim, and I pray they make a speedy recovery.
As someone who has recently spoken in Parliament about rising knife crime and as an aunt whose own family has felt its devastating pain, I’m calling for action. That means tougher measures and longer-term, sustainable funding for initiatives like our Violence Reduction Partnership.
Beyond crime, as Chair of the Hospices APPG, I’m also fighting for dignity in dying. Places like John Taylor Hospice in Erdington provide incredible care, yet rely too heavily on charity. They deserve long-term funding, and I’m determined to keep pushing to make that happen.
Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott are stronger when we stand together. We’ve already shown what we can achieve, so let’s keep pushing forward.
Paulette Hamilton MP by the Houses of Parliament / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
The first duty of any government is to keep its citizens safe. That’s why I’m proud this Labour Government is increasing defence investment 2.5% of GDP by 2027, the biggest sustained boost since the Cold War.
This commitment strengthens national security and ensures we have the capabilities to protect the UK and our allies.
But security isn’t just about national defence, it’s about keeping our communities safe too. After 14 years of Conservative neglect, our armed forces are stretched thin, and crime and anti-social behaviour are rising. Undoing the damage of the past will take time, but Labour is committed to rebuilding Britain and delivering for our communities.
Locally, I took a firm stand against an HMO application on Mason Road, leading a campaign backed by 386 residents. Birmingham City Council rejected the application, sending a clear message that enough is enough.
HMOs bring increased crime, put pressure on local services, and undermine initiatives like Operation Fearless, which aims to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
I joined West Midlands Police for an all-out day on Erdington High Street. With a new Public Spaces Protection Order in place and Operation Fearless making an impact, traders and shoppers are seeing a real difference.
I also held a coffee morning in Kingstanding, where residents raised crime and anti-social behaviour as top concerns. I’ll keep working with the police and local partners to tackle these issues.
From community campaigns to coffee mornings, I will keep fighting for a safer Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors – as identified against each article – and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.
If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: [email protected]
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.”
