Six Councils Can Raise Tax Over 5% Without Referendum
Six affluent London and South East authorities can increase council tax by more than 5% for two years without a local vote. Residents face steep hikes as funding shifts to deprived areas.
Six affluent London and South East authorities can increase council tax by more than 5% for two years without a local vote. Residents face steep hikes as funding shifts to deprived areas.
Sevenoaks District Council has published a new list of planning applications. Residents have until January 15, 2026, to submit comments on proposals ranging from house extensions to a Gypsy and Traveller site variation.
Birmingham's pilot scheme for negotiated Traveller stopping points faces further delays, missing its June and October start dates. Councillors slam the 'glacial pace' of progress. Read the latest.
Discover the 13 highest-rated fish and chip shops in Birmingham for 2026, based on customer reviews. Is your local favourite on the list?
An unauthorised traveller encampment has returned to Daisy Farm Recreation Ground in Maypole, Birmingham, just 48 hours into the new year. Councillor Adam Higgs is pursuing eviction and long-term defensive measures. Read the latest.
MAFS UK 2025 bride Leisha hints at explosive drama in the upcoming second reunion episode, airing in February. Only one couple remains together.
Pharmacists warn that common foods like grapefruit and leafy greens can weaken drugs or increase side effects. Learn how to make your treatment safer and more effective.
The government has tripled the inheritance tax threshold for farmland to £2.5m following pressure. Critics say it doesn't go far enough to protect family farms. Read the full story.
A new CMA report warns UK petrol and diesel drivers face persistently high fuel margins that cannot be explained by operating costs. Find out what this means for pump prices.
Experience a glamorous dinner and cabaret show at The Grand Hotel Birmingham for just £45. Discover the ultimate value night out with fine dining and live entertainment.
A shocking 28% of UK residents live with damp, mould, or cold. Health experts reveal these conditions worsen asthma, heart issues, and mental health. Learn the risks and what action to take.
A man has died and a woman is in hospital after a hit-and-run on Soho Road, Handsworth. Police are hunting the driver of a Vauxhall Corsa. Call 101 with information.
A woman in her 70s has died after a hit-and-run on Wentworth Road in Harborne. A 39-year-old man has been arrested. Join BirminghamLive for breaking news.
A festive market in Manchester was brought to a standstill after a violent altercation between Dougie Joyce and Simon McGinley. Read the full story and watch the footage.
Birmingham fails to rank in Condé Nast Traveller's friendliest UK cities for 2025. Discover why perceptions matter for tourism and the city's true welcoming spirit.
Walsall Council applies to make Pleck transit site permanent after temporary permission lapsed. Decision expected next month amid ongoing local controversy.
Revealed: UK Home Office secretly funded Mr Meanor boyband to perform anti-radicalisation songs in Muslim-area schools. Discover the covert campaign details.
Community groups in North Kesteven can now apply for up to £1,500 from a new £18,000 Flourishing Communities Grant. Funding supports projects like defibrillators and play equipment. Apply by November 30, 2025.
Beloved Gogglebox couple Dave and Shirley Griffiths are flooded with support from co-stars and fans as they celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Read their heartwarming story.
Exclusive police data reveals 202 crimes reported on Smallbrook Queensway where Katie Fox was fatally stabbed. Shoplifting tops the list as community seeks answers.
Birmingham City Council will completely refurbish a widower's mould-ridden council house after his 'inhumane' living conditions were exposed. 67-year-old John Marshall will be moved to temporary accommodation during the works.
The £40 M&S Mesh Jersey Midi Shirt Dress is so popular it's constantly selling out. Shoppers say its flattering fit and everyday comfort make it worth the hunt.
Andrew Barraclough, 61, died from a lung tumour while serving a 16-year sentence for sexual offences. An investigation praised the 'excellent' care he received. Read the full report.
Discover the dramatic conclusion of Maxton Hall season 2, based on Mona Kasten's Save You book. Will Ruby and James survive the ultimate betrayal? Find out now.
HMRC data reveals top stocks and shares ISAs are worth 17x more than cash ISAs. Experts warn savers may need to transfer funds to build long-term wealth.
The Range has opened a new home and garden store in Oldbury, featuring a Garden Centre by Homebase. First 50 customers received goodie bags. Discover the new one-stop shop now!
Cneifio Cylch's sheep shearing community has raised nearly £200,000 for Wales Air Ambulance over 14 years, funding 56 lifesaving missions across rural Wales. Discover their incredible story.
UK households with 'dodgy' Amazon Fire TV Sticks face home visits and £1,000 fines in a new crackdown on illegal streaming. Learn the risks and Amazon's new security measures.
Historic Renters' Rights Act becomes law on 1 May 2026, banning Section 21 evictions and protecting 11 million tenants across England. Discover your new rights.
Shoppers hail Boden's Collar Button Lace Dress as 'flattering' and the 'perfect fit' that skims curves. Get 10% off this 'amazing' £159 party dress with code C7R7.