Uber fares to rise 20% from January 2026
A VAT rule change means Uber and private hire trips in England will cost 15-20% more from 2 Jan 2026. Find out why and who it hits hardest.
A VAT rule change means Uber and private hire trips in England will cost 15-20% more from 2 Jan 2026. Find out why and who it hits hardest.
Sandwell Council reveals plans for 12 affordable flats opposite the new Horseley Road metro stop, aiming to ease a severe shortage of family homes where waits can stretch to nine years.
The sister of Anthony Sharma, murdered by Diogo Bettencourt, shares her grief and calls for witnesses. West Midlands Police appeal for information on the brutal attack.
A powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off Taiwan's coast, shaking the capital Taipei and prompting tsunami warnings for Japan's Okinawa region. No casualties reported yet.
The rollout of contactless payments on UK railways has led to higher peak-time fares and reduced off-peak options, sparking criticism from MPs and passenger groups. Find out how the changes affect your journey.
Swimmers from St Helens, Prescot, and across the North West delivered a medal-laden weekend at the Trafford Metro meet, while Masters athletes triumphed at the European Short Course Championships in Poland.
Discover the ultimate guide to festive events in Birmingham, Solihull, Warwick & beyond. From light trails to pantos and ice skating, plan your perfect Twixmas break.
Lifestyle experts name the eight best areas to live in the West Midlands in 2026. Discover the top picks, from Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter to vibrant Kings Heath.
A man is in a critical condition after being shot on Wordsworth Road in Willenhall. West Midlands Police are investigating the incident that occurred hours before Christmas Eve.
Discover seven of the prettiest villages in the West Midlands for a delightful Christmas stroll away from the festive hustle. Perfect for families seeking a quaint escape this holiday season.
West Midlands Police could lose £41.1m in funding by 2026, risking 520 officers and neighbourhood policing. Commissioner warns of a 'postcode lottery' and urges government action.
West Midlands Police could lose £41.1m in funding, risking further cuts to officers. Crime Commissioner Simon Foster warns of a 'postcode lottery' and fewer police on streets.
The government's £3 bus fare cap, extended to 2027, makes Christmas markets and New Year's Eve fireworks accessible and affordable. Discover routes and savings.
Hammerwich Crematorium in Staffordshire reports a 77% rise in cremations following a £350,000 renovation, responding to shifting public attitudes towards funeral choices. Discover the investment behind the trend.
Petra Varga of Wirral Metro clinched gold in the 200m Individual Medley with a personal best at the Swim England Winter Championships in Sheffield. Discover all the local medal winners and standout performances from a thrilling weekend of swimming.
Bus station workers and customer service staff in the West Midlands walk out for a second time, rejecting a 3.2% pay offer. UNISON warns of disruption to transport and projects.
West Midlands Police report a spike in car thefts in Streetly, with thieves monitoring weather forecasts to steal unattended vehicles. Officers deploy high-visibility patrols. Read the safety advice.
The West Midlands introduces a free air quality warning system to combat pollution. Residents can sign up for alerts to protect their health from dangerous air. #CleanAir #WestMidlands
Discover four underrated West Midlands market towns and villages, rich in history and charm, that are perfect for a rewarding visit in 2026. Plan your trip now.
A major new food hub in Birmingham aims to provide seven million meals and skills training to tackle alarming poverty and food waste levels across the West Midlands.
Metro tram fares across the West Midlands will increase from 2 January 2026. Find out the new prices for single, day, and monthly tickets and the reasons behind the changes.
A grieving family faces mortgage refusal after Metro Bank declines to remove late payment markers from their credit file, despite their son's death. Read their story.
The government has announced a £246m funding package for bus services across the West of England. Local authorities will decide how to spend the money on new vehicles, infrastructure, and keeping fares low.
Dogs Trust West Midlands has over 50 dogs, including 15 featured here, desperate for loving families in Birmingham and the West Midlands this festive season.
West Midlands Police chiefs face a parliamentary committee over disputed intelligence used to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans. Plus, budget impacts for Birmingham, Smithfield dig begins, and Mayor backs tourist tax.
The new Midlands Metro line into Dudley passes through some of the borough's most deprived wards, revealing stark inequalities in unemployment and housing. Discover the data behind the divide.
Discover Birmingham and West Midlands' quirky hidden attractions beyond the usual tourist spots. Explore catacombs, pagodas and industrial art spaces.
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet in Cannock is set for a major expansion, creating 500 new jobs and adding 25 stores by 2027. Discover the exciting plans for the popular shopping destination.
Discover 15 historic ancient and religious sites across the West Midlands perfect for family days out this winter. Explore Roman ruins, medieval castles and more.
Discover the top 8 places to live in the West Midlands in 2026, according to Muddy Stilettos' expert guide. Find your perfect new home today!