Representaives from The Pioneer Group and Seddon at Burcote Road development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group
As a community-focussed organisation, Castle Vale will always be at the heart of everything we do. Our roots are here, and with the vast majority of our homes based on the Vale, our commitment to both our tenants and local residents remains as strong as ever.
You may have seen that we’re beginning work on two new housing developments nearby, in Erdington and Minworth.
While they sit just a five-minute drive from Castle Vale, they give us an opportunity to respond to the growing need for affordable homes in our wider neighbourhood. For us, it’s about building the right homes in the right places, while staying true to our purpose and values and continuing to invest in our local communities.
We know that Castle Vale is more than just where we provide housing, it’s a community.
That sense of community extends beyond our homes too. Castle Vale Stadium continues to be a place where people come together, whether through sport, events or shared activities, and it plays a vital role in bringing people of all ages together.
Alongside this, The Sanctuary offers a wide range of support, from Early Help and youth services to health and wellbeing programmes.
These services are there for our residents and the wider community alike, helping people access the support and guidance they need, when they need it most.
The Sanctuary on Tangmere Drive / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group
As we look ahead, our focus remains the same, supporting strong, connected communities and making a positive difference both on Castle Vale and the local area.
The Pioneer Group are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Click on the image below to read Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news, first published in the May to June ’26 Erdington Local newspaper.
Representatives from Seddon Housing Partnerships and The Pioneer Group at the Burcote Road development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by The Pioneer Group
The Pioneer Group has announced plans to develop two new housing sites at Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive, delivering 36 new social rent homes as part of its wider commitment to providing high‑quality, affordable housing across North Birmingham.
Work on both sites has begun, marking an important step in Pioneer’s ambition to build the right homes in the right locations.
The Pioneer Group is the modern day community led housing association, managing over 2500 homes across Castle Vale and other areas, that grew from the old Housing Action Trust (HAT) established in 1993 – as part of Government led a nationwide initiative to give more local power to underprivileged housing estates across the country.
Other Housing Action Trusts were established in London, Liverpool, and Hull.
The Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive developments form part of Pioneer’s wider strategy and development programme, which aim to deliver around 250 new homes over the next five years, supporting housing need while maintaining a strong focus on quality, affordability and place‑making.
At Burcote Road in Erdington, Pioneer will deliver 10 new homes for social rent with construction undertaken by partner Seddon. The scheme is being built on land purchased from Birmingham City Council and will be supported by funding from Homes England and Pioneer, with Seddon appointed as build partner.
Located within Erdington Ward, the development aligns closely with Pioneer’s Development Plans, which focuses on placing appropriate schemes in well‑connected locations where they can best meet local housing needs.
Tony Clark, Regional Director, Seddon Housing Partnerships, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with The Pioneer Group to deliver much-needed affordable homes at Burcote Road. This development reflects our shared commitment to creating high-quality, sustainable homes that will make a lasting positive impact for local communities.”
At Lindridge Drive in Minworth, Pioneer have put spades in the ground on a 26‑home social rent development, delivered in partnership with Morro Partnerships. The scheme will provide a mix of modern, high‑quality homes designed to support individuals, families and long‑term community sustainability.
Representatives from Morro Partnerships and The Pioneer Group at the Lindridge Drive development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group
Tom Broadway, Managing Director (West Midlands), Morro Partnerships said: “Delivering sustainable homes and helping communities thrive is our core focus at Morro. Choosing timber frame construction for our first project with our partners at Pioneer will not only speed up delivery, but also ensure the homes are more energy-efficient and cost-effective for future residents.
He added: “Building with the future in mind is a responsibility we take seriously, and we are excited to be working with Pioneer to deliver much needed homes in the area.”
The Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive schemes are supported by Homes England funding, alongside Pioneer’s own private financing to ensure schemes remain both deliverable and financially sustainable. This also includes just over £1.4 million in funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority, which has enabled Pioneer to move from an affordable rent model to social rent, helping to keep rents as low as possible for new tenants.
The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group (Copyright Phil Greig)
As an anchor organisation based in Castle Vale, Pioneer remains focussed on staying local, responsive and connected to the communities it serves.
While both Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive sit outside the Castle Vale estate, the developments reflect Pioneer’s commitment to using its strong local foundations to deliver affordable homes where they are most needed.
These projects also reflect Pioneer’s wider priorities to deliver great homes, support resilient communities and sustain the legacy of regeneration for future generations.
Simon Wilson, Chief Executive at The Pioneer Group, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing forward these two new developments, which represent another positive step in our long‑term commitment to delivering high‑quality social rent homes.”
He added: “By investing in the right sites, working with trusted partners and securing strong financial foundations, we can continue to meet housing need and support communities now and, in the years, ahead.”
Simon Wilson – The Pioneer Group (TPG) Chief Executive Officer / Photograph by Phil Greig, supplied by TPG
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
As a registered social landlord, we do not hold or promote party‑political views. However, our work is shaped directly by government policy, so it is important to acknowledge that decisions taken at national and local levels influence the environment in which we operate and the services we are able to deliver.
Government policy becomes real through legislation and regulation, whatever party forms the administration. Issues such as the availability of good‑quality social housing, the safety and sustainability of our homes, and the extent to which tenants can influence decisions about allocations and services are all shaped by this wider national framework.
These topics continue to be central to public debate and will remain important throughout this year’s election cycle.
Birmingham’s upcoming all‑out local elections are expected to be closely watched, and while predicting outcomes is not my role, what I can say with certainty is that we will continue to focus on long‑term, constructive partnerships.
Our commitment is to work collaboratively with those elected, whichever party they represent, to secure the best outcomes for our tenants and the wider communities we serve.
We are proud of the positive working relationships we have developed with ward councillors across all areas where we have homes. These partnerships have supported investment, community initiatives and practical improvements that benefit local residents.
I would encourage everyone to use their vote, understand the issues, consider who best reflects your priorities, and take part. Local elections can be won and lost on small numbers so every vote really does count.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Simon Wilson – The Pioneer Group CEO / Photograph by Phil Greig, supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
As we look forward to the very first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards on Thursday 19 March, I’m filled with pride at what this moment represents for our community.
This is a first of a kind and a chance to recognise the people who give their time, passion and energy to make Castle Vale the place it is today.
This year’s event also arrives at a moment in our shared story. It has been 30 years since the regeneration of Castle Vale began, a turning point led initially by the Housing Action Trust, which transformed the estate’s homes, opportunities and future.
From a time when change was urgently needed, residents and partners worked together to rebuild a community and reputation.
Today, Castle Vale stands as a nationally recognised model of sustainable regeneration, built not simply through investment, but through the strength and determination of its people.
We are proud to continue honouring the promise made during those early regeneration years, to invest in great homes, strengthen its community and support a community where everyone can thrive. But the true credit belongs to the residents themselves.
Not only our customers, but neighbours across the whole estate whose everyday actions, often unseen, make Castle Vale such a special place.
So, as we come together at Greenwood Academy from 6pm, I want to wish every nominee across our six categories the very best of luck.
Thank you for helping make this community exceptional.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Simon Wilson, The Pioneer Group CEO / Photograph by Phil Greig and supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
Over the past year, our Skills Hub has become something we’re incredibly proud of. The Skills Hub has quickly grown into one of the most valued parts of our community offer.
Back in March 25, we transformed an underused space in Topcliffe House into a dedicated home for training, employment support and partnerships with local providers.
By September, the Skills Hub opened its doors and welcomed residents to weekly courses run by BMet and Birmingham Adult Education Service, alongside our own 1:1 support and job clubs. Since then, we’ve seen almost 300 visits in just the first three months, with more than half coming from Castle Vale residents.
We’ve also embraced digital skills in a big way. During Get Online Week, our session on using AI for job searching was so popular that we now run it regularly. And thanks to new funding through the Digital Innovation Fund, we’ll be helping at least 200 people across the city build confidence with technology, while supporting young people to become digital mentors.
Since refurbishing one of the empty rooms at Topcliffe House, it has allowed us to offer even more learning opportunities, right in the heart of the estate.
For us, it’s simple. We’re here to do more than provide homes. We’re here to help people build brighter futures and the Skills Hub is proof of what’s possible when community comes first.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Simon Wilson, The Pioneer Group CEO / Photograph by Phil Greig and supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
We know that Castle Vale is a proud community with a strong sense of identity, and the Government’s latest data* shows that things are beginning to move in the right direction.
While we remain aware of the challenges many residents face particularly around income, employment and access to opportunities the estate is less deprived than it was five years ago, which shows clear signs of progress.
We are also seeing improvements in community safety. Crime levels remain lower than the Birmingham average, showing the positive impact of local partnerships and a strong community spirit. These shifts matter; they create the foundations for greater confidence, investment and wellbeing.
We know that high‑quality housing and a safe, attractive environment are essential for a thriving community. The latest data highlights that Castle Vale performs better than many similar neighbourhoods in areas such as housing quality and the wider living environment, and we remain committed to strengthening those advantages.
But opportunity also depends on skills. Our Skills Hub, based in Topcliffe House continues to grow, offering CV support, training and pathways to local jobs helping residents build brighter futures right here on the estate.
Castle Vale is changing, and we are proud to play our part in driving that positive momentum forward.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Simon Wilson – The Pioneer Group Chief Executive / Photograph by Phil Greig, supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
As we approach the festive season, there’s plenty happening across Castle Vale.
We’re delighted to bring back our popular Take a Tag gift tree at The Sanctuary, giving residents the chance to make Christmas brighter for those in need. Look out for our advert in this paper which gives you all the information to get involved.
A big thank you to M&BG for donating a Christmas tree and to Nationwide Windows and Doors for providing the lights, we’ll be announcing the details on our social channels of our Christmas Tree Light Switch-On.
Beyond the festivities, we’ve been investing in our community.
This year saw the launch of the Topcliffe Skills Hub, a space for our Skills and Employment Team. Since opening, the hub has welcomed 142 Job Club attendances (including 46 Castle Vale residents), 39 course registrations (18 local), and hosted a popular AI information session with 16 attendees.
Participants range from 16 to 67 years, and courses such as English with Social Media, Parenting Skills, and Digital Skills for Beginners have been in high demand. We’re now consulting residents to shape future courses and working with partners like the BAN network to introduce vocational training and strengthen links with local employers.
We’ve also published our latest Customer Annual Report, which shows: £1.5m saved and reinvested into community regeneration, £867k secured to retrofit 77 homes, 84% customer satisfaction, above sector averages & £4.6m in social value generated.
I’d recommend having a look at how we’re performing on our website.
As always. thank you for your continued support, and I wish you an enjoyable festive period.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Chief Executive Officer of The Pioneer Group, Simon Wilson / Photograph by Phil Greig – supplied by The Pinoeer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
At the heart of our work is our pledge to listen, engage, and improve how we connect and work together with our community. Across Castle Vale, we’re making real progress in strengthening our communications and ensuring customers feel informed and involved.
This summer, we’re excited to welcome everyone to our Community Festival on Saturday, 30 August. It’s a brilliant opportunity to come together, celebrate what makes Castle Vale special, and show the great work taking place across Castle Vale. Whether you’ve lived here for years or just moved in, we’d love to see you there.
We’re also hosting a Financial Wellbeing Drop-In on Thursday, 18 September at The Sanctuary, offering practical support and advice to help people manage their finances.
Alongside this, we’re continuing to deliver our Listening Hubs across the estate, these are spaces where you can meet the team, share your views, and hear about what’s happening locally. I’d really encourage you to come along, get your voice heard, and help shape the future of Castle Vale.
On the housing front, I’m proud to share that through our Windows and Doors Programme, we’ve now completed installations in 1,480 homes, representing an investment of over £7.1 million. We remain on track to complete the programme this autumn, delivering warmer, safer homes for our customers.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected Castle Vale. Thank you for being part of it.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Chief Executive Officer of The Pioneer Group and Compass Support, Simon Wilson / Photograph by Phil Greig – supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
Earlier in June, we were pleased to share the results of our latest Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs), which show how you feel about the services we provide.
I’m proud to say that overall satisfaction has risen to 83.9%, a result that reflects the hard work of our teams and the valuable feedback you’ve shared to help us improve. While this is encouraging, we know there’s still more to do to be the best landlord we can be.
One area where we’ve seen a notable improvement is in satisfaction with how we handle anti-social behaviour (ASB). This remains a key priority for us, and we’ve taken steps to strengthen our response.
We’ve invested in a major upgrade of our CCTV system across Castle Vale, which plays a vital role in helping to tackle ASB and keep our neighbourhoods safe.
To date, 96% of the CCTV upgrade has been completed, and in 2024/25 alone, the system helped us capture 456 incidents. This has allowed us to work closely with our local neighbourhood policing team, who we’re proud to host in our building on the Vale.
This technology not only supports enforcement but also acts as a deterrent, helping partners respond more quickly and effectively when issues arise.
We’re continuing with this work and making sure everyone feels safe and supported in our community. Thanks to your feedback, we’re able to shape our services and deliver the best outcomes possible.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Colour Run at previous Castle Vale Community Festival – organised by The Pioneer Group / Photograph supplied by Castle Vale Local
Words by The Pioneer Group
(Ed’s note… this column was written the June/July Erdington Local newspaper and first published, in print, on Thursday 12 June.)
The Pioneer Group is thrilled to announce the return of the Castle Vale Community Festival, taking place on Saturday, 30 August 2025 at Farnborough Fields, next to Castle Vale Stadium, 12midday till 6pm.
Following the overwhelming success of last year’s event, which drew over 1,000 attendees, this year’s festival promises even more excitement and entertainment.
The 2025 programme will feature a children’s colour run which comes back by popular demand, alongside a full day of live performances, family-friendly activities, food, music, and more.
Stalls at previous Castle Vale Community Festival – organised by The Pioneer Group / Photograph supplied by Castle Vale Local
Jo Fieldhouse, Housing & Community Director at The Pioneer Group, shared: “The Castle Vale Community Festival is a celebration of the people who make this estate such a great place to live.
“It’s a chance for everyone on Castle Vale to come together and have fun. We’re thrilled to bring it back this year and can’t wait to see everyone there.”
The festival is a proud continuation of Castle Vale’s fantastic community spirit.
After the success of the 2024 Colour Run and Festival, the message from residents was clear – “Let’s do this every year!” and now, it’s official, Castle Vale Festival is back.
This is a community-led event, and everyone is invited to take part. Here’s how you can contribute:
Volunteer – Help plan, set up, run the day, or clear up afterward.
Sponsor – Support the festival and showcase your brand.
Donate – Every contribution helps us do more.
Run a Stall – Join our bustling marketplace.
Perform – Bands, dance crews, solo acts—we want to hear from you!
Stay tuned for updates, announcements, and the full schedule of events via The Pioneer Group’s social media channels.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
