High Street Decline: Retail Footfall Falls in November
New data reveals a 0.8% year-on-year drop in UK retail footfall last month, driven by Autumn Budget tax fears and poor weather. Industry leaders call for a new high street revival plan.
New data reveals a 0.8% year-on-year drop in UK retail footfall last month, driven by Autumn Budget tax fears and poor weather. Industry leaders call for a new high street revival plan.
Poundland is shutting around 30 branches as part of a major restructuring. See the full list of locations closing in December and January, including Melton Mowbray and Bexhill.
More than 500 bank branches have disappeared from British high streets in 2025. See the full list of closures and check your area with our interactive map.
Three 19-year-olds arrested in Bearwood after a police pursuit involving a helicopter. A large quantity of Class A drugs was seized. Read the full details.
A century-old former working men's club in Smethwick, which fell into administration, will be transformed into townhouses and flats. Council planners approved the scheme despite parking concerns.
West Midlands Police are investigating a fatal collision on City Road, Bearwood. A man in his 60s died in hospital. Officers urge witnesses or dashcam holders to come forward.
Lloyds Banking Group announces 44 branch closures for 2026 as customers move online. Find the full list and see what support will be available for affected communities.
Halifax announces 14 bank branch closures across the UK in 2026, citing a shift to digital banking. Birmingham's Bearwood branch among those shutting. Full list inside.
NatWest is closing six high street branches on December 31, 2025, citing a shift to digital banking. Community pop-ups and mobile services will support affected customers. See the full list.
A man has been rushed to hospital with potentially serious injuries after being hit by a bus on Digbeth High Street. Emergency services were called to the scene opposite Birmingham Coach Station.
Sandwell Council approves plans to convert the historic Corks Social Club into homes, despite highways officers calling the lack of parking 'unacceptable'. Read the full story.
West Midlands Police appeal for witnesses after a fatal collision on City Road, Bearwood. A man in his 60s died in hospital. Call 101 with information.
Three men have been charged after a violent disorder at The Abbey pub in Bearwood left a man with a leg injury. Police continue to appeal for information.
Three men have been charged with violent disorder and assault following a stabbing at The Abbey pub in Bearwood. A fourth man is in custody. Police appeal for witnesses.
Poundland is closing five more shops across the UK this month, launching 'everything must go' sales. Find out the full list of locations and closing dates here.
Explore Digbeth, Birmingham's coolest neighbourhood, where vibrant street art and independent shops have been ranked among the UK's best for Gen Z. Discover the must-see murals.
A man in his 20s was stabbed at The Abbey pub in Bearwood. Three men are in custody as police continue their enquiries. Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
A man in his 20s is in a stable condition after a stabbing at The Abbey pub in Bearwood. West Midlands Police have arrested three men and are appealing for witnesses.
A man in his 20s was stabbed at The Abbey pub in Bearwood. Three men have been arrested on suspicion of wounding. Police are appealing for witnesses.
Frustrated Bearwood traders reveal how crime, litter and 24/7 shops are driving customers away. Shop owners consider leaving as area's reputation suffers.
From a controversial 24/7 casino approval to a rejected 'battery farm' HMO and a UK-first robotic pharmacy. Get the full update on Sandwell Council's major decisions this week.
Sandwell Council rejects 11-bed HMO in Smethwick High Street amid resident fears it would worsen existing rat infestations and fly-tipping problems. Read the full story.
Sandwell Council approves new Continental Market off-licence on Bearwood Road despite residents' concerns about antisocial behaviour and public safety risks in the area.
Marks & Spencer unveils ambitious plan for 500 new and revamped food stores across the UK, creating 800 jobs and transforming shopping experiences nationwide.
A 42-year-old woman has been charged with a Birmingham Co-op robbery. Nicola Brown was arrested by Op Skybridge officers on Erdington High Street. Follow for more crime updates.
Birmingham's Digbeth district, with Gibb Street and Floodgate Street, has been ranked among the UK's top destinations for independent shopping. Discover unique gifts and a creative vibe this winter.
West Kirby faces a crossroads as new parking charges threaten to drive shoppers away. With 50 business closures already, traders fear this could be the final straw for the high street.
Lidl has submitted fresh plans to demolish its outdated Bilston store and build a modern supermarket with more parking and an improved product range. Read the latest updates.
Lidl submits plans to replace outdated Bilston store with modern supermarket featuring 155 parking spaces and improved facilities. Read the full details.
Hundreds of hungry locals queued in freezing temperatures as H.M Shawarma gave away free food to celebrate its Kings Heath opening. Discover the menu and community reaction.