Cllr Ray Goodwin outside Spitfire House on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
Castle Vale welcomed the festive season in spectacular style as hundreds of residents gathered for the annual Christmas Tree Light Switch-On at Centre Park on 1 December.
The event, made possible through the support of The Pioneer Group and a number of dedicated local partners, was a powerful reminder of the remarkable community spirit that defines our estate.
The evening opened with a heart-warming performance from our very own Pioneer Choir, whose beautiful renditions of classic Christmas carols set the perfect tone for the celebrations.
Castle Vale’s Christmas Tree lights switch on event in Centre Park / Photograph supplied by The Pinoeer Group
Excitement grew as families waited for the arrival of our special guest – Santa himself – who delighted children and adults alike before helping to officially illuminate this year’s impressive Christmas tree.
This stunning centrepiece, proudly standing at the heart of Castle Vale, was generously donated along with the lights by Nationwide Windows and M&BG. Klassic Donuts added to the festivities with sweet treats that kept everyone warm and smiling throughout the night.
As the lights flickered on and the crowd cheered, it became clear that this event was more than a seasonal tradition; it was a celebration of togetherness.
Organisations such as Upcycle Birmingham, The Sanctuary, Castle Vale Community Environmental Trust, Spitfire Services, YoungStars Community Hub and Castle Pool Community Partnership all played a part in bringing the community together for an evening of joy, connection and pride.
With the unveiling of a special Christmas flag and more festive surprises to come, Christmas at the Vale is officially underway.
This year’s celebration stands as a shining example of what Castle Vale can achieve when we come together.
Cllr Ray Goodwin outside Spitfire House on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
October and November have been months of reflection, change, and community spirit in Castle Vale. As we move from autumn into winter, we’ve continued to see that spirit of unity and progress shine.
October kicked off with another successful Mobile Tip Truck event, helping residents tackle fly-tipping and keep our streets clean.
It’s always inspiring to see so many people come together, showing real pride in our community. When we work side by side, we not only improve our environment but strengthen our connections.
Community safety remains a priority. Following concerns about antisocial behaviour and off-road biking, I’ve been working closely with local police, housing officers, and partners to ensure everyone feels safe.
I’ll continue pushing for quicker responses and stronger enforcement.
Exciting news: the rebuilding of our parks will soon begin. These green spaces are vital to families, children, and older residents alike, offering places to relax and connect.
(l-r) Cllr Ray Goodwin and local veteran raise ‘Lest We Forget’ flag in Centre Park on Remembrance Day / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
On Remembrance Sunday we attended the Remembrance Day service at St. Cuthbert’s Church, which bought the community together, and at 11:00am on the eleventh month we stood together as a community to raise the flag and honour those who served and sacrificed.
It was a meaningful moment of reflection and unity.
As the festive season approaches, we look forward to the Christmas tree light switch-on and supporting the Christmas Toy Appeal. Together, we’ll ensure that every child in the Vale has something special to look forward to.
Castle Vale is a place of determination, unity, and hope. Together, we’ll face whatever comes next.
West Midlands Police have confirmed the rush hour chaos and widespread traffic gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas earlier today was caused by “a collision involving five vehicles”.
The local force also confirmed that despite the number of vehicles involved, and the busy location in which the incident occurred, none of those involved were “seriously injured”.
Reports came in early this afternoon after traffic on Chester Road was brought to a standstill following an incident – suspected to be near the M6 motorway interchange – that was creating widespread disruption across the area.
At around 5pm traffic was still at an absolute standstill, trapping hundreds of drivers trying to make their way across Northeast Birmingham on a Friday afternoon.
Incident causing major tailbacks and widespread gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Vehicles travelling along Fort Parkway, Chester Road, and leaving the Castle Vale estate were ground to a halt – as police tried to keep frustrated drivers calm and deal with the situation.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police told: “We were called to reports of a collision involving five vehicles on Chester Road, Birmingham, just before 3pm.
“Thankfully, no one was reported to have been seriously injured.”
They added: “Anyone who witnessed the collision can contact us via Live Chat on our website or by calling 101 quoting log 3109 of 21 November.”
Incident causing major tailbacks and widespread gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Castle Vale reporter Tracy Fisher, who spoke to officers at the scene, told how much of the uniformed police presence was involved in talking to drivers who were becoming “increasingly frustrated” at the gridlock.
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin was also at the scene and told Erdington/Castle Vale Local that he witnessed a BT Open Reach van likely involved in the collision, that was “a bit dented”, but that by around 6:30pm police were successfully moving the traffic and the congestion was starting to ease.
Cllr Goodwin also noted other drivers who were becoming distracted by the incident and putting themselves and potentially others at risk.
Police responding to gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Early this evening, whilst still at the scene, Cllr Goodwin told Erdington/Castle Vale Local: “There has been a road traffic incident [on Chester Road] and people should stay away from the Chester Road area whilst police deal with this incident and keep people safe.”
He added: “The traffic is starting to move, but not a quick as you would normally see. Can people please drive safely as well, as it could cause another accident.”
An incident has sent the rush hour traffic into chaos on and around the Chester Road by Spitfire Island and up to the M6 motorway interchange – putting hundreds of drivers in “gridlock”.
Cars and vehicles are currently locked bumper to bumper on large parts of the Chester Road, from the Tyburn Road roundabout right up to the M6.
The incident has also created equal congestion on Fort Parkway, with drivers leaving the City Centre now forced into a standstill.
Traffic coming off the Castle Vale estate is also backed up with pictures on social media showing lines of stationary cars up Farnborough Road and Tangmere Drive.
Incident causing major tailbacks and widespread gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Erdington/Castle Vale Local reporter Tracy Fisher was at the scene and has taken a series of photos showing just how bad the traffic jam has become.
According to her report, traffic was in complete “gridlock” and drivers were becoming “increasingly frustrated” and irate – with some “honking their horns” and shouting.
Tracy tells that police attending were talking to drivers to try and temper their frustration, but there seemed to be little movement or improvement to the standstill
She was also told by emergency services at the scene there had been an incident near the M6 interchange but there had been “no serious injuries.”
Police responding to gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin told Erdington/Castle Vale Local: “I would advise everybody to stay at home and avoid both the Chester Road and the surrounding areas as there has been an incident which has now caused gridlock – on the estate and surround roads.
“Please avoid leaving the estate unless you really need to, as emergency services deal with the ongoing incident. And our thoughts are with anyone who may have been involved in the incident.”
Erdington/Castle Vale Local has reached out to all emergency services for an update.
Incident causes gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photgraphs by Tracy Fisher
Councillor Ray Goodwing (Castle Vale, Labour) on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour Group
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
(**Ed’s note… this column was first published on Friday 17 October in the Erdington Local print edition.)
There is a song for that.
September is always a month of change — the end of summer, the start of something new, and a reminder that progress never stands still in Castle Vale. This month, we’ve seen that spirit in action across our community.
We began with another Mobile Tip Truck event, tackling fly-tipping and helping residents keep our streets clean and tidy. It’s been inspiring to see so many people come together with real pride in the Vale.
When we work side by side, we don’t just improve our environment — we strengthen our community.
Community safety has remained a top priority. Following reports of antisocial behaviour and off-road biking, I’ve been meeting with local police, housing officers, and partners to ensure your concerns are heard. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own neighbourhood, and I’ll keep pushing for greater visibility, faster responses, and stronger enforcement.
There’s also positive news on the horizon: the rebuilding of our parks will begin shortly. These green spaces mean a lot to families, children, and older residents alike — places to relax, play, and connect.
It’s taken time and persistence to get here, but it’s wonderful to see our shared efforts turning into real investment for the future.
As autumn settles in, I’m reminded of what makes Castle Vale special — determination, unity, and hope. Whatever challenges come our way, we’ll face them together. Because here on the Vale, there really is a song for that.
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin – standing on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
This past month in Castle Vale has been one of the busiest I can remember, but also one of the most rewarding. Every week has reminded me just how special our estate is, and how lucky I am to serve such an incredible community.
At the heart of my work has been the drive to make Castle Vale cleaner and greener. From joining residents at community litter picks to working with partners on environmental projects, I’ve seen the pride people take in their neighbourhood. That same determination is guiding our efforts to tackle rising energy costs, as I explore ways we can help residents reduce bills and make homes more sustainable.
One of the highlights of the month was the Castle Vale Community Festival. It was fantastic to see families, neighbours, and friends coming together to celebrate what makes this estate unique – its energy, diversity, and spirit of togetherness. Events like this show Castle Vale at its very best.
We’ve also taken time to reflect and remember, particularly through the commemoration of VJ Day. Standing alongside residents to honour those who served was humbling, and it reminded me how important it is to inspire the next generation of leaders here in Castle Vale.
It’s been a busy month, but if anything, the pace is only increasing. I know big things are coming for our community, and I’m determined to keep putting Castle Vale first – always.
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin – standing on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
As Councillor for Castle Vale, I’ve been proud to lead efforts that are making a real difference in our community. One of the most visible changes is the regeneration of local play areas—turning tired, underused spaces into vibrant, safe places where children and families can come together.
These improvements aren’t just cosmetic; they’re about creating opportunities for play, connection, and pride in Castle Vale.
I have also taken strong action against fly-tipping, which has long been a concern for residents. Through targeted clean-up operations, better reporting systems, and community engagement, we’re tackling the issue head-on.
It’s about restoring respect for our shared spaces and making Castle Vale a cleaner, more welcoming place for everyone.
But none of this would be possible without the incredible volunteers who give their time and energy to support these efforts. From litter picks to helping with play area projects, their commitment is inspiring.
They are the heartbeat of Castle Vale – proof that when we work together, we can achieve great things.
I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, and even more excited about what’s ahead. Castle Vale is a community full of potential, and together, we’re building a brighter, cleaner, and more connected future.
I have promised to always put Castle Vale first which is what I will always do.
Cllr Ray Goodwin on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been reminded—again and again—why I’m so proud to represent Castle Vale.
Our community is full of everyday heroes. From the volunteers in our foodbanks, to the youth workers creating safe spaces, to the neighbours looking out for one another – you are the heartbeat of this estate. It’s not about politics, it’s about people.
I’ve been out and about, listening to your concerns and working with local partners to tackle the things that matter most: rising living costs, mental health support, youth engagement, and the need for decent, affordable housing. One issue I know has been a major concern is dangerous street racing.
Thanks to pressure from residents and our work alongside West Midlands Police and the City Council, we’ve have seen enforcement action take place.
I’ve also raised the issue directly with highways and community safety teams to push for longer-term solutions – because our roads should be safe for everyone, day and night.
I want to thank everyone who’s taken time to speak with me at community events, clean-up days, forums, or even just out on the street. Your voices guide the work I do. I’m not here to make promises I can’t keep – I’m here to listen, to act, and to stand alongside you.
Castle Vale is strong because you are strong. And as your councillor, I’ll continue doing everything I can to support a community that believes in fairness, compassion, and opportunity for all.
We are Castle Vale – and together, we are stronger.
Cllr Ray Good win on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
(Ed’s note… this column was written the June/July Erdington Local newspaper and first published, in print, on Thursday 12 June.)
Since I last wrote my article a view from the Vale there has been a high-profile incident where a firearm was discharged. Whilst this was an isolated incident, it also reminded me that we simply need to be on the front foot always and put residents’ safety first.
We did a great amount of work last year when a similar incident took place, to ensure we kept our Neighbourhood Police Team in place.
Whilst I am extremely grateful to West Midlands Police for their diligence in dealing with the incident, I am aware the new model being introduced in Erdington will leave Castle Vale at a policing deficit. This I something I will be picking up with the Chief Constable and the Police and Crime Commissioner.
I will now be pulling together a Community Safety Summit to collaborate with partners to produce tangible solutions that reduce the risk of such high-profile incidents happening again.
Castle Vale is an amazing community, and it is my promise that whilst I am the Councillor for Castle Vale I will do everything in my power to protect residents and this community. Words are good but my continued actions are there to help keep residents safe.
As Mahatma Gandhi said: “The future depends on what you do today.”
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
