Labour Councillor Slams Government Planning Changes
A Birmingham Labour councillor has publicly criticised his own government's proposed planning reforms, calling them a 'disaster about to happen' that will trash vital protections.
A Birmingham Labour councillor has publicly criticised his own government's proposed planning reforms, calling them a 'disaster about to happen' that will trash vital protections.
Birmingham's planning committee has refused a 263-bed student accommodation tower, fearing harm to historic buildings like the Town Hall. Read the full debate.
Planning Inspectorate dismisses appeal for eight apartments in Blackheath, upholding Dudley Council's refusal. The scheme was deemed too dense and a risk to pedestrian safety.
New government planning proposals could see residential gardens used for new homes. Read the full details of the consultation and the political row it has sparked.
Daniel Black, 37, has been sentenced to seven years for rape in Nuneaton. Warwickshire Police praised the victim's bravery. Read the full court details.
The family of Tomasz, 47, pay heartfelt tribute after he died in a collision on the M6 northbound. Police appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage.
Rochdale Borough Council has issued decisions on a range of planning applications, including home extensions, tree removals, and commercial changes. Discover the latest outcomes for properties across the borough.
The Warwickshire village of Ilmington has been crowned the best place to live in the Midlands for 2025 by The Sunday Times. Discover why this Cotswolds gem is thriving.
Solihull Council has refused plans for 80 new homes on green belt land in Hockley Heath, citing unresolved flood risks. Read the full story on the local planning clash.
The Eating Inn Steakhouse in Blackpool has had its latest planning application refused. The council says the extension harms the Promenade's character. Read the full story.
Avian flu confirmed at Kingsbury Water Park. Public urged not to touch birds, keep dogs on leads, and follow hygiene advice. Park remains open.
Explore the UK's spectacular Christmas lights trail at Twycross Zoo, featuring over 2,000 hand-crafted lanterns and the world's first Gruffalo experience. Plan your visit now!
West Midlands Cars in Wednesbury has lost its appeal to continue operating. The council cited severe congestion and safety risks. Read the full timeline and outcome.
A man in his 30s was rushed to hospital after a serious assault outside a McDonald's in Nuneaton. Police have arrested a 38-year-old and seek a key witness cyclist. Read the latest.
From a historic pub facelift to a new fly-tipping crackdown, here's your roundup of the latest news and decisions from Solihull Council this week.
A developer makes a third attempt to build a petrol station, shop, and car wash on a site in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, closed since 2005. Previous bids were rejected over noise and design concerns.
A Warwickshire Police officer faces three theft charges, accused of stealing cash and jewellery during a drugs operation. Read the full court details.
A new AI tool called Objector generates planning objections in minutes, raising fears of an automated 'nimbyism' arms race that could undermine housing development across the UK.
Major European broadcasters boycott Eurovision 2026 after EBU confirms Israel's place. Discover which countries have withdrawn and why. Read the full story.
Several European broadcasters, including Ireland and Spain, will not participate in or broadcast Eurovision 2026 following the EBU's decision to allow Israel to compete. Read the full story.
A 123-year-old pub clock in a historic Midlands market town is telling time again after a £6,000 restoration. Discover the story behind this community landmark.
A Warwickshire Police officer faces three theft charges for alleged offences while on duty. Pc Robert Davies will appear in court this week. Read the full details.
A controlled explosion was carried out on a WWII mortar round found near Walton Hall. Warwickshire Police urge the public to call 999 if they find suspicious items.
A mother shares a powerful Christmas warning after her daughter suffered a brain injury in a drink-drive crash. 'One bad choice can change everything,' she says.
A government planning inspector has upheld Solihull Council's refusal of a house extension on Widney Road, ruling it would harm the street's character. Read the full details.
The Bank of England's latest data shows new mortgage rates have dropped to 4.17%. Experts analyse the market ahead of the crucial interest rate decision. Read the full report.
Sandwell Council has refused plans to demolish the empty Crown Inn in Old Hill for a new shop, stating the land is reserved for future housing or employment use. Read the full details.
The M6 motorway is closed southbound in Warwickshire after a pedestrian was seriously hurt. Follow our live blog for diversion routes and updates.
A government planning inspector has dismissed an appeal to build a four-bedroom house on a Solihull green space, siding with residents who argued it would spoil their 'lovely crescent'. Read the full ruling.
Discover how the Throckmorton family's takeover of Coughton Court introduces Historic Houses membership for free entry from March 2026. Explore Warwickshire's heritage today!