As the clean up following recent strike action continues, Birmingham City Council will begin a new temporary refuse collection schedule tomorrow (Monday 28th August), aiming to get everyone’s bins cleared once a fortnight.

The strike, which began at the end of June, has been suspended since 16th August. With Birmingham City Council last week deferring a final decision on whether a proposed downgrade of some Grade 3 roles would go ahead, the industrial action remains on hold.

The council will this week be aiming to collect from the following WARDS (NOTE: Ward may differ from postal address. Not sure? Check you ward here): 

If you live in one of the above wards, leave your household and recycling waste bins out for collection

Missed collection?

In the week from 21st August, the council attempted to clear the following wards: Aston, Billesley, Bournville, Edgbaston, Erdington, Harborne, Longbridge, Nechells, Lozells & East, Handsworth, Oscott, Shard End, Sheldon, Sparkbrook, Stechford & Yardley North, South Yardley, Stockland Green, and Sutton Vesey.

If you live in one of the above wards and did not receive a collection, report a missed collection here

West Midlands Police Museum will be opening the doors on Steelhouse Lane’s 125 year old lock-up once again in September.

The historic Grade II listed facility closed last year after being used by the force and Birmingham’s courts for well over a century. The building retains many of its original Victorian features alongside more modern custody facilities.

This is the second event brought to you by West Midlands Police Museum and Birmingham’s Hidden Spaces.

As well as having a chance to browse around the facility and cells, you’ll also get the opportunity to hear some of the stories of bravery and heroism of officers past, view some of the museum’s fascinating artefacts and pictures and see what prisoners would have been resident in the lock-up in the late 1800s.

As this year marks the centenary of female officers in the West Midlands Force, there will also be a special Women in Policing display. Copies of a book on women in policing in West Midlands will also be available to buy. A Fair Cop was cowritten by Corinne Brazier and Edgbaston Inspector Steve Rice and costs £9.99 (see what they did there?!). All profits go to local women’s charities. The book is also available to buy online 

Event Details:

WHEN: Various hour long time slots are available between 10am and 5pm on Wednesday 13th September.

WHERE: The Lock-Up, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham, B4 6NW

COST: Tickets are limited and are available via Eventbrite. The cost is £5 per adult, with child entry free.

Book online via Eventbrite now!

Birmingham City Council’s planning committee is set to decide on two significant planning applications in Longbridge ward tomorrow (Thursday 31st August). The committee will discuss applications for a housing development on the site of the North Worcestershire Golf Course in Northfield and a cinema, gym and restaurant complex for Longbridge town centre.

North Worcestershire Golf Club

The committee will discuss plans for a 950 home development on the site of the former North Worcestershire Gold Course in Hanging Lane. (View all related application documents) 

A former application for up to 1000 homes was withdrawn at the eleventh hour in March, just 2 days before it was due to be decided upon by the committee.

City Planning Officer Ben Plenty at that time had recommended the plans be refused on several grounds, and developers Bloor Homes have not managed to change his mind with their revised plans.

Issues around ecology of the site, increased traffic in the surrounding area, insufficient infrastructure have been raised during the consultation period.

Mr Plenty has again recommended that the committee refuse the application for two key reasons: 

1. The site was ruled out for housing development in January this year when the government’s chief planning officer accepted the Birmingham Development Plan. In his recommendations, Mr Plenty says: “The application site was specifically not allocated for new housing in the recently- adopted local plan. The principle of development is unacceptable and the material considerations have failed to indicate otherwise. As such, the proposed housing represents unsustainable development and is contrary to Section 38 (6) of the Planning and Compensation Act (2004), Policy PG1 of the BDP and provisions of the NPPF (Paragraphs 2, 14-17, 47-49).”
2. Concerns remain about ecology & landscaping. Mr Plenty recommends: “The Master Plan fails to pay sufficient regard to the identified site constraints of ecology, trees and important landscape features or the local context. As such the Master Plan, and proposed development zones, fail to properly provide a suitable balance between development areas and open space, and fail to properly consider connectivity, context (especially in regard to density) and internal layout. The Master Plan is therefore flawed and contrary to Policy PG3, TP6 and TP8 of the BDP, paragraph 3.14 to 3.14D of the (saved) UDP and contrary to fundamental design considerations as set out in paragraph 56 of the NPPF.”

During consultation, Birmingham City Council received 136 letters of objection, 6 letters of support and a petition containing 546 signatures, which was submitted in response to the original planning application. Objections have been submitted by Richard Burden MP, Cllr Randal Brew (Con, Northfield), Cllr Andy Cartwright (Lab, Longbridge) and Cllr Ian Cruise (Independent, Longbridge)

Cinema, gym and restaurant for Longbridge

Longbridge developers St Modwen are seeking planning permission for a new leisure complex at the heart of the new ‘town centre’. (View all related application documents)

Developers hope that Phase 3 of the regeneration of the former car factory site will bring a cinema, gym and restaurants to Longbridge.

The proposed leisure development would occupy land adjacent to Smyths Toys store and would create around 140 jobs once completed.

The modern building would be home to a 9 screen ‘the light’ cinema, a health and fitness ‘the gym’ gymnasium and 6 restaurant units.

Four letters of support (including from Longbridge Labour Councillor Andy Cartwright), 10 letters of comment and 38 letters of objection have been received by Birmingham City Council.

One of the main concerns raised has been whether there is a need for another cinema and gym, in particular because of the existing provision at nearby Great Park. However, St Modwen have responded, telling planning inspectors that: “Policy encourages economic growth, and competition, but specifically within a “centres first” framework. It directs these uses towards centres like Longbridge to promote their vitality and viability, as sustainable and accessible places meeting a range of needs. This proposal is a relatively uncommon example of major investment proposed within a centre, pushing back at out of centre competition, and should be supported.”

Planning officers have recommended that the committee accept the planning proposal. 

You can watch the planning committee meeting LIVE from 11am tomorrow (Thursday 31st August)

Following a hugely popular first visit, Digbeth Dining Club is set to return to Longbridge this Saturday (2nd September).

Pop down to the town centre between 11am-6pm for award winning street food, craft beers and even some bubbles served up by some amazing traders: Yümlaut, Street Kitchen Brothers, Firkin Bar.Becue, Flying Cows, Gresko Bodhi, Shake That Ting, Kebabylon, Cornography and Fizzmobile.

What to expect at this weekend’s event (click to enlarge)

The inaugural Digbeth Dining Club in Longbridge earlier this month saw traders overwhelmed by the huge attendance and positive response.

Jack Brabant, Digbeth Dining Club Founder, said: “We were so overwhelmed at the massive
response to our first visit to Longbridge that we couldn’t wait to come back. We are looking to the future to make this a regular destination on our calendar.”

Andrea Clarke, Property Manager for St. Modwen, said: “We’re so pleased the local
community turned out to welcome Digbeth Dining Club to Longbridge for the first time and
enjoy the variety of delicious food the traders had to offer.

“To have them return so soon is testament to the success of the first event. We believe
Longbridge will soon become a go-to foodie destination for the people of Birmingham, and
DDC is the perfect event to help showcase what the growing town centre has to offer.”

Jack added: “With one last chance before summer ends, this is an opportunity to taste some of the best street food the Midlands has to offer!”

Digbeth Dining Club plans to return to Longbridge for a Christmas special later in the year.

Events in Longbridge

With support from town centre developers St. Modwen, the community group Friends of Longbridge Open Spaces (FLOS) has organised a series of events in 2017. Longbridge harvest festival, a musical showcase by Bournville College students and 5-aside football tournament are among other events planned this year.

For more information and updates on events and activities at Longbridge check out the B31 Voices events calendar and visit
www.longbridgelife.co.uk and follow @LongbridgeLife on Facebook and Twitter

Birmingham City Council planning committee have today refused an application for a 950 bed housing development on the site of the former North Worcestershire Golf Club in Northfield. 

In the same meeting, the committee has unanimously approved an application for a leisure complex, including a cinema and gym, for Longbridge Town Centre.

North Worcestershire Golf Club

Ten members of the committee of twelve this morning voted to support city planning officers’ recommendation to refuse the application for a 950 home development on the site of the former North Worcestershire Gold Course in Hanging Lane.

Planning Officer Ben Plenty had again recommended that the committee refuse the application for two key reasons:

1. The site was ruled out for housing development in January this year when the government’s chief planning officer accepted the Birmingham Development Plan.
2. Concerns remain about ecology & landscaping.

Following the decision, Cllr Andy Cartwright (Labour, Longbridge), who addressed the committee alongside resident Gerald Kennedy, said: “I’m really pleased that this application has been rejected. The plans kept changing and it was clear to me, speaking to local residents, that this development is not wanted at all.

“I’m really proud of the residents who turned up at the planning committee meeting to support myself and Gerald Kennedy. I would like to thank Gerald for his strong words to the committee and everyone who has supported the opposition to this development by signing the petition or putting forward their views.”

Longbridge independent councillor Ian Cruise said: “I am pleased the planning committee made the correct decision to reject the application for housing on the former North Worcestershire Golf Course, especially in light of the ferocious opposition from local residents, our Member of Parliament & Councillors of all parties.  I’d personally like to pay tribute to Mr Kennedy, speaking on behalf of local residents for excellently articulating the case for the rejection of the application.

“I am disappointed Bloor Homes continue to pursue the application, despite the site being omitted from the Birmingham Development Plan & having a flawed application that doesn’t address ecological, infrastructural & revenue cost issues – especially about who would pick up the costs for the maintenance of the proposed new school, sports pitches, road maintenance etc. and who would maintain the proposed flood retaining pools.

“No doubt Bloor Homes will out of spite, needlessly appeal this decision to the Planning Inspectorate & Secretary of State, costing the City Council valuable funds in legal costs.  I urge them today to take the moral decision, listen to the local residents & withdraw this needless application once & for all”

Cinema, gym and restaurant for Longbridge

An application from Longbridge developers St Modwen for a new leisure complex at the heart of the new ‘town centre’was unanimously approved by the committee. 

The proposed leisure development will occupy land adjacent to Smyths Toys store and will create around 140 jobs once completed.

The modern building would be home to a 9 screen ‘the light’ cinema, a health and fitness ‘the gym’ gymnasium and 6 restaurant units.

A local neighbourhood PCSO last night bravely confronted and detained a man after he threatened a fire crew with an imitation firearm as they worked at the scene of a cannabis farm fire in Weoley Castle last night (Wednesday 30th August).

Cannabis farm fire

West Midlands Fire Service crews were called to a smoking electricity junction box in Gregory Avenue at around 7pm. The overloading was traced back to a terraced property in the street where a cannabis farm of around 300 plants was discovered.

West Midlands Police were called and PCSO Hannah Moseley from the Weoley neighbourhood team was first on scene as she was patrolling nearby.

Fire crew threatened

As the fire crew – from Northfield Community Fire Station – worked, a man in the street pointed an imitation firearm at two firefighters and made threats. However, plucky PCSO, well known on the streets of Weoley Castle, detained the man until response crews – some armed – arrived at the scene.

‘You’re not bringing a gun on my patch’

PCSO Moseley, who has worked in Weoley for 3 out of her 10 years with the force, said: “I went to give our fire colleagues a chuck with the cannabis farm when one of them pointed out a man they said had pointed a gun at them.

“They felt it was an imitation – but some of these fake guns look like the real thing and can be very scary for people.”

Knowing it may be a few minutes before police response teams arrived, PCSO Moseley felt she had to act so the man didn’t get away. She approached him, grabbed his arm and told him: “[…]you’re not bringing a gun on my patch.”

She added: “He could see I was really angry – I think he was a bit shocked – and I kept hold of him until back-up arrived to arrest him.

“I can’t believe anyone would point a gun, real or otherwise, at fire or ambulance crews: these are people who are here to protect and save lives.”

Threats to firefighters ‘not tolerated’

Lee Baker, Station Commander at Northfield Community Fire Station, added: “We’re very grateful to PCSO Moseley and colleagues for their support at this incident and prompt arrest of a suspect.

“Cannabis factories can be complex and dangerous for our crews, so then also being faced with a man with a fake gun is beyond words.

“Any threat to, or attack upon, our fire-fighters is one too many and will not be tolerated. As in this case, we will work closely with West Midlands Police to bring culprits to justice.”

‘Credit to the team’

And Birmingham Police Inspector Lee Trinder praised Hannah’s actions.

He said: “Hannah’s hugely passionate about her job and the communities she serves – I’m not surprised by her actions, it’s in her nature to do the right thing, but she still deserves lots of credit for her bravery.

“She’s a real credit to the team…not just last night but on every shift.”

A 20 year old local man remains in custody this morning after being arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

National Grid were still checking the electricity supply this morning and police removed evidence from the scene.

Well done PCSO Moseley!

Images by @snappersk

Birmingham City Council has this evening (Thursday 31st August) announced that it will go ahead with plans to change the current Grade 3 Leading Hand refuse collector role to a Grade 2 position, making those currently in the role redundant.

The 113 employees affected will be handed redundancy notices tomorrow (Friday 1st September) but the council insists that no-one need lose their job as other Grade 3 roles within the council will be found for all who want them.

With today’s earlier than expected announcement, the Unite union have yet to respond, leaving residents wondering if more strike action will follow the decision.

Strike action – which began in June – was paused on 16th August after ACAS moderated talks between the Unite union and council bosses. Unite and ACAS issued a press release at the time, stating that Birmingham City Council had agreed to maintain the Grade 3 roles.

However, the following day, the council made it clear that no such agreement was made on their part and cabinet was yet to decide. With council officers adamant that the changes had to be implemented, a decision which was due to be made at the 24th August cabinet meeting was deferred to a special cabinet meeting to discuss the Waste Management Report to be held this Friday (1st September).

However, the council has announced that the decision on the redundancies has been made and that special meeting has now been postponed for two weeks.

A council spokesman said: “In order to protect its legal and financial position, the council is issuing redundancy notices to the Grade 3 Leading Hands in the refuse service – as approved by Cabinet on 27 June. The notices will be received on Friday 1 September. The council wishes to continue its ongoing discussions with trades unions through ACAS in parallel with seeking alternative jobs for the Grade 3s affected by redundancy.”

‘Better, more efficient service’?

Cllr John Clancy, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “The new waste collection system we are introducing will provide a better, more efficient service for citizens and will enable the service to be run within budget.

“We will be creating more than 200 new refuse collection jobs for loaders. These will be full-time, offering a range of benefits, including pension entitlement and sick pay and will replace expensive agency contracts which do not include these benefits.”

Cllr Lisa Trickett, Cabinet Member for Clean Streets, Recycling and Environment, added: “None of the Grade 3 leading hands who are being made redundant need to lose their jobs with the council. Alternative Grade 3 posts, at the same salary in other parts of the council, are available for all those affected leading hands. No one needs to suffer a cut in their basic pay.”

More strike action to follow?

Earlier today, Unite issued an appeal to city council cabinet members ahead of the planned meeting tomorrow, urging them to uphold the deal they claim council leader John Clancy made in talks earlier this month – to keep the Grade 3 role, going against the recommendations of council officers.

Commenting Unite assistant general secretary Howard Beckett said: “A return to industrial action is certain should the council officers get their way and this deal falls through. We would urge Birmingham’s cabinet to stand up to the unelected paid officers and do right by the city and endorse this deal.”

However, following the earlier than expected announcement, Cllr Trickett said: “We hope that, in view of the ongoing discussions with Acas, Unite will not take their workforce back out on strike but continue in discussions with us and the other unions.”

We await the response of Unite on behalf of their members…

Read all #BrumBins posts

A man wanted for murder after a stabbing in Brierley Hill has been arrested in Northfield after evading police for 11 months.

Mansoor Mahmood, 24, was found outside Dixi Chicken takeaway in Brierley Hill High Street on Saturday 15th October. Mahmood had been stabbed in the stomach after an altercation and died later on in hospital.

19 year old Niron Parker-Lee, formerly of Brierley Hill, was identified as a suspect soon after the incident. Despite police appeals, including being featured on BBC Crimewatch in February this year, Parker-Lee managed to evade arrest.

Officers investigating the murder of Mansoor Mahmood last October, have this afternoon (Thursday 31 August) arrested suspect Niron Parker-Lee.

He was arrested from an address in Northfield just after 4.30pm today (Thursday 31st August) on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning.

Birmingham’s refuse collectors are back on strike today after Birmingham City Council announced yesterday (Thursday 31st August) that it was to go ahead with plans to change the current Grade 3 Leading Hand refuse collector role to a Grade 2 position, making those currently in the role redundant.

The 113 employees affected will be handed redundancy notices today (Friday 1st September) but the council insists that no-one need lose their job as other Grade 3 roles within the council will be found for all who want them.

Workers resumed strike action – which had been paused – this morning with th Unite union dubbing the council’s move ‘a deeply provocative act’.

Pause after ACAS talks

Strike action – which began in June – was paused on 16th August after ACAS moderated talks between the Unite union and council bosses. Unite and ACAS issued a press release at the time, stating that Birmingham City Council had agreed to maintain the Grade 3 roles.

However, the following day, the council made it clear that no such agreement was made on their part and cabinet was yet to decide. With council officers adamant that the changes had to be implemented, a decision which was due to be made at the 24th August cabinet meeting was deferred to a special cabinet meeting to discuss the Waste Management Report to be held today (1st September).

Redundancies to go ahead

However, the council has announced yesterday that the decision on the redundancies has been made and that special meeting has now been postponed for two weeks.

A council spokesman said: “In order to protect its legal and financial position, the council is issuing redundancy notices to the Grade 3 Leading Hands in the refuse service – as approved by Cabinet on 27 June. The notices will be received on Friday 1 September. The council wishes to continue its ongoing discussions with trades unions through ACAS in parallel with seeking alternative jobs for the Grade 3s affected by redundancy.”

‘Provocative act’

Unite assistant general secretary Howard Beckett said: “This is a deeply provocative act that drives a coach and horses through the agreement Unite reached with the council in good faith at the conciliation service Acas.

“It does a great disservice to the people of Birmingham and the city’s refuse workers who now face being made redundant and losing their livelihoods or pay cuts of thousands of pounds.”

‘Better, more efficient service’?

Cllr John Clancy, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “The new waste collection system we are introducing will provide a better, more efficient service for citizens and will enable the service to be run within budget.

“We will be creating more than 200 new refuse collection jobs for loaders. These will be full-time, offering a range of benefits, including pension entitlement and sick pay and will replace expensive agency contracts which do not include these benefits.”

Cllr Lisa Trickett, Cabinet Member for Clean Streets, Recycling and Environment, added: “None of the Grade 3 leading hands who are being made redundant need to lose their jobs with the council. Alternative Grade 3 posts, at the same salary in other parts of the council, are available for all those affected leading hands. No one needs to suffer a cut in their basic pay.”

Strike action back on

Strike action resumed this morning with union members stopping work for one hour, three times a day at 7am, 10.30am and 1pm. Adding in breaks and journeys to and from base for breaks and strike periods, working hours are going to be short and uncollected refuse is again going to build up.

Prior to the announcement yesterday, Unite had issued an appeal to city council cabinet members, urging them to uphold the deal they claim council leader John Clancy made in talks earlier this month – to keep the Grade 3 role, going against the recommendations of council officers.

Following the announcement, Mr Beckett said that Unite refuse workers wanted to focus on delivering ‘a safe, efficient service’ and did not want to resume industrial action and see piles of rubbish on the city’s streets.

He said: “Instead of embracing an agreement that would have seen compromise on all sides, the council seems content to put people on the dole and cut their wages by up to £5,000.

“Unite calls on the council to come to its senses and withdraw these redundancy notices to avoid the disruption of industrial action.”

Read all #BrumBins posts</a

Waheyyy Thanks to @southandcitycol we now have the Friday feeling at New St! #FriYAY ^EK pic.twitter.com/SUr2qqCPG5

— Birmingham NewStreet (@NetworkRailBHM) September 1, 2017

An animal-themed dance flash mob hit Birmingham City Centre this lunchtime to celebrate the completion of the merger between two Birmingham colleges: Longbridge’s Bournville College and South and City College. 

Representing the enrolment theme of the combined colleges, which encourages young people to find their “Power Animal”, dancers representing animals flash-mobbed in Grand Central, New Street and Victoria Square.

The newly merged college – finally approved last month – is one of the biggest in the country, with over 22,000 students and around 1,200 staff.

Despite the merger, both colleges will keep their own identities and branding.

Quality

Mike Hopkins, the Principal of South and City College said: “Everything we do is about providing the best for our students. What we are doing here is taking two very good and successful colleges and creating an excellent one.

“As we go into the future, we will be able to capitalise on different strengths of each college and benefit from best practice, creating a high quality institution which will provide fantastic opportunities for learners of all ages.”

The college will offer a wider range of course choices with improved equipment and facilities, offering a better service to the local community and businesses.

Mr Hopkins said: “Our financial and organisational stability will allow us to invest more increased in facilities and resources, both physical and teaching, which will in turn mean a better learning experience for students. Importantly we will be a large college with a small college mentality, focused on students as individuals.”

Improved choice

There are already over 20 new courses across its eight campuses, from new A Levels in Geography, Criminology and Graphics at Bournville College to a Diploma in Interior Design and a HND in Theatrical and Media Make-up at Digbeth campus.

Over time, there will be an even greater choice of courses at more levels and more locations to suit local students.

Mr Hopkins said that the vision of the college is to improve education and training opportunities in the city, as well as raising the aspirations and achievements of local people.

He said: “We have an integral role to play in the future of the local area by supporting the changing needs of the labour market and helping shape its future direction.”

It is not too late to be part of the new College. Call 0800 111 6311 or visit www.sccb.ac.uk to find out more.

. @justinbieber fan or not the #poweranimals @southandcitycol can turn you into one ^EK pic.twitter.com/x2n12WZ6S4

— Birmingham NewStreet (@NetworkRailBHM) September 1, 2017

Videos: @NetworkRailBHM on Twitter | Images: Bournville College

Travellers have moved onto a former golf course in Northfield, just days after developers were refused planning permission for a major housing development.

Several caravans have gained access and are set up on the car park of the former North Worcestershire Golf Club at the junction of Hanging Lane and Frankley Beeches Road.

Cllr Andy Cartwright (Labour, Longbridge) said that as the land is privately owned, the landowners would now have to deal with the legality of removing the travellers and has contacted them to ask that they do so as soon as possible.

On Thursday (31st August) Birmingham City Council planning committee refused a planning application from Bloor Homes for a 950 home development at the site.

Cllr Cartwright – who, along with other local politicians, has opposed the proposed development of the site – added that, following the planning refusal, he is again appealing to the club’s stakeholders to discuss the future of the site and alternative uses with the local community, businesses and community partners.

Following a public consultation, it has been decided that Weoley Hill Post Office will remain in its current location.

It had been proposed that the Post Office be moved from its location at the corner of Swarthmore Road and Hornbeam Close, to Tugford News and Convenience Store in nearby Tugford Road.

A 6 week consultation period sought the views of local residents. Over 115 responses were submitted, highlighting concerns including lack of public transport and dropped kerbs on route to the proposed new location. Local residents also submitted a petition.

The Post Office will continue to operate from its present location.

If any other new location is to be suggested, a further public consultation will have to take place.

A distraction burglar from Kings Norton – who targeted elderly victims across the Midlands and beyond – has been jailed by Birmingham Crown Court this week.

John Casey, 52, was sentenced on Monday (4th September) after pleading guilty to 9 distraction burglaries across Birmingham, the Midlands and other parts of the country. He also admitted kidnap and attempted robbery after driving a man (70s) to a cash machine in Ealing, London to withdraw money – Casey left empty handed when the man fought back as he tried to take the money.

Casey stole money and bank cards after gaining access to the homes of vulnerable elderly residents, claiming he was a police office, water board worker or from the council.

After similar burglaries across the country earlier this year, where the offender was regularly referred to as ‘beer-bellied’, it soon became clear that officers from several forces were seeking the same offender, who was using a silver Rover 45 during his crime spree.

Investigations by West Midlands Police identified Casey and he was arrested in July, refusing to comment in police interviews.

Before a judge, and with strong CCTV and DNA evidence against him, Casey pleaded guilty to nine burglaries worth a total of more than £1,800 between 2013 and April this year.

Casey was sentenced to a total of nine years and three months for crimes he committed at various locations, including Birmingham, Coventry, Sandwell, Nottingham, Newcastle-under-Lyme and London.

Detective Constable Kate Watts, from Force CID, said: “This was cruel and calculated deception which targeted vulnerable people in our society.

“They allowed him into their homes believing he was someone they could trust; but he took advantage of this for his own financial gain.

“It was clear from the descriptions we received from victims that this wasn’t a legitimate police officer and thorough investigation work enabled us to identify Casey as the prime suspect.

“We always encourage people to check for identification if somebody knocks on the door to say they’re on official business.

“Check it carefully and phone the organisation they claim to be from. Get a number from the phone book or online – don’t use any number they provide on a card.”

The police watchdog has been asked to assess the conduct of a dog handler after a video of an incident at a former Northfield golf course on Monday (4th September) was posted on Facebook and viewed millions of times.

During the incident, a man appears to be bitten in the leg by a police dog and dragged across the ground.

West Midlands Police were called to North Worcestershire Golf Club in Hanging Lane – where a group of travellers have been camped since Saturday (2nd September) – just after 5pm, to a report of theft of roof tiles from the old club house.

A 34 year old man was bitten in the leg by a police dog. A video of part of the incident – recorded by a fellow traveller – was posted on Facebook with the caption: “[…]everyone share this post on let people see how travellers really get treated.”

Later in the video, a traveller is heard stating that: “[…] we’ve permission to be here”.

The man was arrested on suspicion of obstruction but has been released pending further investigation. He remained in hospital awaiting treatment today.

A woman, 31, was also arrested on suspicion of assault and released without charge.

A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said that no complaint had been received, but the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) to assess the conduct of the dog handler.

The travellers were served with a 48 hour notice to leave the site on Monday but were still on site this morning (Thursday 7th September).

Read more:

• Travellers access former Northfield golf course days after permission for housing development refused | B31 Voices

• Man’s leg ‘mutilated’ by police dog in Birmingham | BBC Midlands

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a dog was abandoned in the car park of their Birmingham Animal Centre in Frankley Green. 

CCTV footage shows a black Mercedes pull into the car park and stop by disabled bays at around 8.05am on Saturday 26th August.

A man gets out of the driver’s seat and takes the dog from the boot of the car and walks towards the centre’s gates.

The man then returns to the car alone before quickly driving away.

Seconds later the dog – a Staffordshire bull terrier-type named Roxy by rescue staff – is seen running back to where the car had been and wandering around the car park. It was 40 minutes before Roxy was found by a staff member arriving for work.

The RSPCA’s chief inspector for Birmingham, Rebecca Cooper, said: “It is so sad to think that someone thought it was okay to do this. Being abandoned must have been extremely stressful and poor Roxy wasn’t found straightaway.

“A vet has checked over Roxy and found that she seems to have a problem with her legs – this could be arthritis, but we are not sure yet until further tests are carried out. She is a lovely dog though and she is getting a lot of fuss.”

Anyone who recognises Roxy or the man in the footage is asked to call the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 123 8018.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit www.rspca.org.uk/give or text LOVE to 87023 to give £3 (Text costs £3 + one standard network rate message).

A Northfield man has come first in a regional competition to recognise the best apprentice carpenters and joiners in the West Midlands. 

Conna O’Toole, 21, has been an apprentice with Stourbridge-based Kendrick Homes, for two years.

Coming first in The Skillbuild Regional Heat Competition 2017 means Conna will now compete at national level later this year.

Conna said: “I am delighted to be working with Kendrick Homes who not only encourage me but give me so much flexibility to continue my studies on a day release basis at college, whilst enabling me to be understudy to the same carpenter and joiner on a daily basis.

“By being able to combine the theory and practical knowledge that I am gaining it is giving me the confidence to enter such competitions as Skillbuild.

“And it is a great feeling to now be able to say I am officially a carpenter and joiner – and the best in the region!”

Earlier this year Conna worked voluntarily on a project to create an outdoor ‘show and tell’ area for Perry Common Primary School, expanding his experience by working in a different environment. The project also gave Conna the opportunity to work at a managerial level, as one of the more experienced apprentices on site.

Wayne Bingham, Health, Safety and Environment Manager at Kendrick Homes said that Kendrick Homes train apprentices to their ‘high standards’ while bringing them ‘through the ranks’, through a combination of on site experience and classroom learning at college.

He said: “It’s […] good having an Apprentice on site that knows our standards and someone that we can rely on 100%, such as Conna, and we wish him every success in his continued development as a carpenter and joiner.”

Congratulations, Conna and good luck for the national competition! 

This Saturday (9th September) sees the return of Frankley Carnival with fun, games, entertainment and more for all ages.

Hosting will be provided by Jammersley Entertainment with Search for a Star winner and George Formby tribute act Joe James Thomas providing some of the entertainment!

There will be entertainment from local groups in the arena, inflatables, children’s rides and even a chance to get your hands on some exotic animals with Animals in Hands.

And luckily we don’t have to wait four years to witness (or perform!) inspirational sporting performances in the next Franklic Games – it’s back this year!

A spokeswoman for Frankley Carnival said: “It is the highlight of our year and a time when the whole community comes together.

“The event is organised by the totally voluntary carnival committee, led by chair Linda Coates. Each year the whole team give many hours of their time to make the day a real treat for local families.

“Like all our other events throughout the year the aim is to be affordable for everyone. There is no entry fee and all rides, refreshments and activities are priced as reasonably as possible. We can only do this thanks to grants that boost our takings on the day; chief amongst these is from New Frankley in Birmingham Parish Council.”

Event details

• What: Fun, entertainment, games, stalls – for all the family
• Where: Green space next to Frankley Health Centre, New Street, Frankley
• When: 11.30am-5pm Saturday 9th September

The spokeswoman added: “Whatever the weather does, we will be there to celebrate our community.”

West Midlands Police are inviting individuals and community groups to special local events to help improve communities across South West Birmingham.

What is a World Café?

Neighbourhood policing teams are hosting “World Cafés” where groups and individuals can meet with their local police teams to discuss issues that need addressing and ways their communities can be improved.

The events will help identify the needs and priorities of each area, where groups can work together and help identify where monies from the Active Citizens Fund would be best placed.

What is the Active Citizens Fund?

The Active Citizens Fund is delivered jointly by West Midlands Police and the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner. It aims to enable members of the community to be positively engaged and active, resulting in improvements to their own communities.

Each neighbourhood policing team is allocated a share of the fund for the area they cover.

Who should attend?

• If you are an individual or group active in your local community and want to help identify what improvements could be made
• If you are an individual or group who has a specific idea for improving your local community but need help and / or funds to enable you to carry it out

Where and When is your local event?

Northfield Constituency : 

Northfield, Kings Norton, Longbridge, Weoley wards (Also includes Frankley & West Heath)

• When: Saturday 23rd September 9am – 1pm
• Where: The Factory Young People’s Centre, Devon Way, Longbridge
• Reserve your place / more details: Email Inspector Lee Trinder l.trinder@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk

Edgbaston Constituency : 

Bartley Green, Edgbaston, Harborne & Quinton wards 

• When: Tuesday 19th September 6-9pm
• Where: Lord Knight Suit, Tally Ho, Pershore Road, Edgbaston B5 7RN
• Reserve your place / more details: Email Sgt Lee Wiggan l.wiggan@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk

Selly Oak Constituency : 

Bournville ward

• When: Wednesday 13th September 10am-12pm
• Where: Masefield Community Centre, Masefield Square, Birmingham B31 2HL
• Reserve your place / more details : Email Jenene.tandy@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk

Selly Oak ward

• When: Saturday 30th September 10am-1pm
• Where: Christian Life Centre, Frederick Road, Selly Oak
• Reserve your place / more details: Email: sellyoak@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk

From St Modwen Homes:

Award-winning housebuilder, St. Modwen Homes, has launched the second eagerly anticipated phase of its new residential development in Cofton Hackett.

More than 900 people have registered their interest in the new homes at Cofton Grange and three sold within the first hours of opening.

This is the latest residential development in Longbridge, located off Shadow Close, following the sell-out success of St. Modwen Homes’ first phase at Cofton Grange in just two months.

The new phase includes a range of three and four bedroom properties; all of which combine unique elevational finishes with flexible layouts. All designed with the St. Modwen Homes’ difference, the new homes also boast higher than average ceilings and large windows throughout, creating bright open living spaces ideal for family living.

Bev Hall, Sales and Marketing Director at St. Modwen Homes, said: “We’ve already had lots of interest in our new homes at Cofton Grange and it’s fantastic to now be launching the second phase of our latest development and further continuing the regeneration of Longbridge.

“Situated adjacent to Arrow Park, Cofton Grange is just a short walk from the various shops, cafés and restaurants Longbridge has to offer, as well as street food and other family-friendly events.

“At St. Modwen Homes we take great pride in our house designs and have worked closely with our architects, RPS, to ensure that our new homes at Cofton Grange stand out from the crowd and appeal to people on all stages of the property ladder.”

The new homes start at £244,995 for a three bedroom, semi-detached Mirin house type and all the properties are available under the government’s Help to Buy scheme, meaning they can be purchased with a deposit of just 5%.

Cofton Grange forms part of St. Modwen’s broader £1bn regeneration of the former MG Rover site at Longbridge, Birmingham, with £300m invested to date. Four hundred family homes have already been created along with shops, eateries, offices, the £66m Bournville College, Longbridge Technology Park and the new Austin Park. Alongside the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine (RCDM) Accommodation Building and Longbridge Retirement Village.

The Marketing Suite and Showhomes at Cofton Grange is open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5.30pm inclusive of the weekends. For more information, call 0844 243 4507, email CoftonGrange@stmodwenhomes.co.uk, visit www.stmodwenhomes.co.uk or follow the housebuilder on Twitter at @StModwenHomes and like the Cofton Grange page on Facebook. Alternatively, contact Robert Oulsnam & Company Lettings on 0121 445 3311.

A group of dedicated volunteers who work hard keeping the streets and public spaces of Frankley clean have featured on a BBC One show this morning (Monday 11th September).

Frankley Street Champions (FSC) was formed by local residents Ian Bruckshaw and Bruce Pitt who were fed up with seeing litter in the streets and took it upon themselves to pick it up.

Now, the group of volunteers – funded by Frankley Parish Council and supported by Birmingham City Council – has its own tipper truck for collecting fly-tipped rubbish and is used across the city and beyond as an example of great work by active and determined citizens.

The group was featured on BBC One’s show Dom on the Spot this morning.

When asked for comment, co-founder Bruce Pitt humbly told B31 Voices: “We’re just ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”

Cllr Andy Cartwright said: “Frankley Street Champions are a credit to their community and their city.”

If you’re interested in helping out Frankley Street Champions, please email Ian Bruckshaw

Watch Dom on the Spot (Series 2 Episode 6): Click the image to view on BBC iPlayer (from 36’30”)

Cover image by Malcolm Keating