Birmingham's 2025: Strikes, Politics & Flag Wars
A look back at Birmingham's turbulent second half of 2025, from the unresolved bin strike and political infighting to divisive flag displays and a landmark new stadium plan.
A look back at Birmingham's turbulent second half of 2025, from the unresolved bin strike and political infighting to divisive flag displays and a landmark new stadium plan.
From a selfless teen saving a life on a bus to Black Sabbath's historic reunion, discover the uplifting stories that defined the Midlands in 2025. Read the full round-up.
Residents and parents in Hall Green have until 5 January 2026 to give feedback on major road safety proposals, including a new 20mph zone, bollards, and pedestrian refuges around Chilcote Primary School.
Reform UK seized minority control of Worcestershire County Council in 2025, ending two decades of Conservative rule. Discover the key events, financial crises, and political defections that reshaped the Midlands.
A headstone in a Birmingham cemetery bearing only the word 'Mother' sparks an online mystery. Discover the theories about the young mum's unmarked grave.
Birmingham Council plans new traffic calming on Cranes Park Road in Sheldon. The scheme, part of a wider plan to prioritise people over cars, includes a refuge island and mini-roundabout. Have your say in the consultation.
Polling expert Lord Hayward warns Labour faces heavy losses across England, Scotland, and Wales on May 7, 2026, potentially jeopardising Keir Starmer's leadership. Read the analysis.
Discover the hilarious local quirks and dialect that make a Birmingham Christmas unique. From 'going round the Wrekin' to 'wagging it', we decode the festive season, Brummie-style.
From Caldmore to Weoley Castle, discover the Midlands place names that are linguistic minefields. A guide to saying them like a local. Can you pass the test?
Discover Charles Dickens' deep connection to Birmingham, where he first performed A Christmas Carol in 1853, and how the city's spirit continues to inspire local journalism today.
A Birmingham landlord urges locals to support their pub this Christmas as closures hit 'unprecedented rate' and business rates threaten a 15% hike. Protect your local.
Future Birmingham council leaders elected in 2026 will lack full autonomy, bound by a government-imposed action plan to ensure financial stability. Discover the binding roadmap for recovery.
Government commissioners will oversee Birmingham City Council after the 2026 elections, restricting new leaders' autonomy with a strict action plan. Discover the roadmap for recovery.
Shirebrook Town Council left unable to function after 11 councillors quit. Bolsover District Council appoints temporary members to restore operations. Read the full story.
Birmingham City Council secures a massive £651.5m funding increase over five years as part of a new £78bn government settlement targeting deprived areas. Read the full story.
Local Conservatives promise to scrap parking charges and establish a trust to restore Birmingham's Sutton Park ahead of the 2026 elections. Read their full plan.
A new pop-up shop showcasing work by Solihull College students has opened at Resorts World Birmingham. Gallery in the Glass offers unique art until January 14.
Birmingham City Council proposes selling the freehold of the Grade II listed Alpha Tower to aid its financial recovery. Key committee vote set for December 16.
Birmingham City Council's new plan proposes building on 17 Green Belt sites in Sutton Coldfield. Local leaders call it an 'attack on the town' and urge residents to object before the December 19 deadline.
From 'moms' to the No. 11 bus, can you pass the ultimate Birmingham identity test? Discover the 16 rites of passage that prove you're a proper local.
A £264.1 million government funding package will transform bus services in Birmingham and the West Midlands, aiming for lower fares and more reliable journeys. Discover how this investment will impact your commute.
Birmingham City Council's new Local Plan proposes 15 Green Belt sites in Sutton Coldfield for housing, with over 8,200 potential homes. Public consultation extended to December 19.
Birmingham's Brindleyplace hosts a festive market on Dec 18 with local vendors like Early Bird Bakery and the Salvation Army Band. Discover food, gifts, and festive cheer.
Labour councillor Jack Deakin resigns from Birmingham City Council after attending just two meetings in a year. Residents left without representation for six months.
Government commissioners will oversee Birmingham City Council until at least 2028. The ongoing bins strike and equal pay liabilities are key challenges slowing the council's recovery.
Discover the 14 best brunch spots in Birmingham this winter, from independent cafes to premium bistros, all loved by locals and perfect for a hearty treat.
Two Birmingham stores, Candy and Liquor and Morrisons Daily, have been celebrated at the 2025 Local Retail Champions awards for their outstanding community work. Discover their inspiring stories.
Discover Your Local Pantry, a Birmingham-based supermarket chain with a unique membership model that could save shoppers over £1,000 annually on their grocery bills.
Councillor Vera Waters resigns from Walsall Conservatives, citing a party that has 'lost its way'. She is the fourth to leave in a year amid deselection turmoil.
Birmingham's premier live music venue XOYO has been acquired by Propaganda Independent Venues, promising renewed support for local artists and grassroots music. Discover how this change will benefit the city's music scene.