Solihull Council leader pledges to balance budget
Council leader Karen Grinsell insists Solihull will meet its legal duty to set a balanced budget despite a forecast £2.7m deficit. Opposition raises concerns over service cuts.
Category : Politics
Council blocks care home's 'garden grabbing' extension plan
Planners at Dudley Council have refused a care home's bid to build a seven-bedroom extension in a neighbouring garden, citing overbearing impact and loss of private amenity space.
Inspector overrules Solihull Council on children's home
A government planning inspector has granted permission for a Solihull children's care home, overturning the local council's refusal. Read the full story on the controversial decision.
New £150 Cost-of-Living Fund Open to All Households
Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirms a new Crisis and Resilience Fund will launch in April, offering financial support to households struggling with living costs. Learn how to apply.
New Olton children's home plan submitted after refusal
A fresh application to convert a large family house in Olton into a children's home has been lodged with Solihull Council. The plan follows a previous refusal and seeks lawful development approval.
Aldi's 'dangerous' store plan slammed by council
Warwick District Council postpones decision on Aldi's controversial access point over safety fears. Critics argue it forces pedestrians into traffic. Read the full report.
Birmingham Bin Strike May Cost £42,000 Per Day
The ongoing bin strike in Birmingham could cost the council £19 million by March, equating to £42,000 daily. Read the latest on the financial impact and deadlocked talks.
Sweet shop plan for house rejected by inspectors
A government planning inspector has upheld a council's decision to block a house conversion into a sweet shop in West Bromwich, citing noise, odours, and parking issues. Read the full story.
Majority would vote to rejoin EU, new poll finds
A new Deltapoll survey reveals 58% of voters would support rejoining the European Union if another referendum were held. Discover the stark divides by age, region, and party.
Badenoch protests China 'mega-embassy' in London
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch joined protesters demanding the government block China's proposed London mega-embassy over security concerns. A decision is due by January 20.
DWP benefit rise delayed for millions in April
Millions on DWP benefits won't see their 2026 inflation-linked increase until May due to standard payment arrears. Find out how much more you'll get.
Dudley Council reverses grit bin policy after outcry
Dudley Council has reversed its controversial once-a-year grit bin refill policy following public anger during Storm Goretti. Bins will now be refilled as needed. Read the latest.
New house plan for vacant plot next to Worcester pub
A developer seeks to build a two-bedroom home next to the Grosvenor Arms in Worcester. Planning officers recommend approval, with councillors set to make the final decision on 22 January.
MP's Push to Criminalise Political Lies Gains Support
Labour MP Luke Myer's amendment to make lying by politicians a criminal offence garners cross-party support. The 'Hillsborough Law' could see MPs and Lords face prosecution for intentional deception.
UK Digital ID Scheme Watered Down After Public Backlash
Plans for mandatory digital ID cards are being scaled back after nearly three million people signed a petition. The scheme, now expected in 2029, will likely be optional initially. Read the full story and share your view.
11 UK Tax Changes Costing Households Thousands in 2026
UK households face higher bills as 11 tax changes take effect in 2026, from alcohol duty to council tax hikes. Discover the key dates and costs.
Sutton Coldfield restaurants apply to expand dining areas
Two neighbouring restaurants on Manor Road in Sutton Coldfield have submitted planning applications to extend their premises, with one owner citing the need to 'pay the bills'. Read the full story and see how to comment.
29 Councils Request Election Postponement
Twenty-nine English councils, including three in the Midlands, have formally asked to delay their local elections due to a major government reorganisation. Discover the full list and the reasons behind the requests.
MP blasts 'witch hunt' as Chief Constable retires
Birmingham MP Ayoub Khan condemns the departure of West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford, who retired after a controversial ban on away fans for an Aston Villa match. Read the full story.
Police Chief Retires After AI Report Blunder
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford retires immediately following controversy over AI use in a match report and a damning inspectorate finding. Read the full story.
West Midlands Police Chief Constable retires immediately
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford has retired with immediate effect following a watchdog review and political pressure. Read the full story of his 30-year career.
Manchester skyscraper plans rejected by council
Plans for two towers in Manchester city centre have been unanimously rejected. Councillors slammed the lack of affordable housing and the impact on neighbours' light. Read the full details.
Cornwall holiday pods refused over flood risk
Cornwall Council has refused a retrospective application for four holiday pods and a pool in Hayle, citing significant flood risk. Read the full story on the planning decision.
Love Island All Stars: Scott's savage line stuns villa
Scott van-der-Sluis left Love Island All Stars viewers reeling with a brutal one-liner aimed at Sean Stone. Discover why fans are calling it the 'line of the season' already.
West Midlands Police Chief's Fate Announced
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster will announce the future of Chief Constable Craig Guildford today at 4pm. Follow for live updates on this breaking story.
Salford's Quayside shopping centre set for £10m leisure revamp
Peel Retail and Leisure submits plans for a £10m transformation of Quayside shopping centre, featuring indoor electric go-karting and family entertainment. The investment aims to create a vibrant waterfront destination for Salford.
MPs Question DWP Over WASPI Compensation Delays
MPs are set to question DWP officials over the WASPI women scandal after the Ombudsman raised 'serious concerns' about delays to promised remedial action. Read the latest.
Councils told to give cash payments for household emergencies
Low-income households to receive direct cash payments for crises like boiler breakdowns under new £1bn fund. No application needed. Find out if you qualify.
DWP's new bank check powers: 6 details shared
The DWP gains powers to check claimants' bank accounts for six key details from 2026. Learn which benefits are targeted and what data will be shared.
£20 Council Tax Rise in London for Phone Theft Fight
Londoners face a £20 council tax increase to fund a major police crackdown on phone theft gangs. Mayor Sadiq Khan says the rise is a 'difficult decision' for safety. Read the full list of affected boroughs.
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