Birmingham's 2026 leaders face strict financial controls
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.
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.
Morethan Property Ltd submits fourth planning application for 205 High Street, Brownhills, seeking to demolish a bungalow and build six one-bed apartments. Read the full story.
Birmingham's new lead commissioner says the city must earn the respect of a true 'second city', drawing direct inspiration from Barcelona's global standing. Read the full analysis.
Solihull councillors will visit the 300-year-old Brickmakers Arms in Balsall Common before deciding the fate of its controversial fence and outdoor bar. Read the latest in the planning saga.
Birmingham City Council is installing average speed cameras on six new routes in 2026, expanding enforcement across the city. Drivers urged to stick to limits to save lives.
A major redevelopment in Wolverhampton will see a vacant Sports Direct store converted into a 52-bed hotel, gym, and five new retail units, boosting city centre investment.
New data shows Birmingham residents face waits up to 250 weeks for social housing. Discover the worst-hit areas and how the council's system works.
New data reveals 16 Birmingham areas are 'red zones' for council housing waits, with Quinton's 250-week lead. Discover the full list and official advice for applicants.
A developer has submitted fresh plans for 14 homes on Malvern farmland, months after a scheme for nine properties was rejected by the council and dismissed on appeal. Read the latest details.
Birmingham City Council approves the sale of the iconic Alpha Tower to aid its financial recovery. Read the full story and reactions from local councillors.
A 1,000-page last-minute report has delayed a decision on a 750-flat Manchester skyscraper for a second time. Meanwhile, a controversial Chorlton redevelopment gets the green light.
The government's lead commissioner warns a 'that'll do' attitude must be broken for Birmingham City Council to recover. Key financial deadlines are set for early 2025.
Birmingham councillors have refused plans for a 263-bed student block near New Street station, citing 'less than substantial' harm to historic buildings like the Town Hall.
A Birmingham Labour councillor has publicly criticised his own government's proposed planning reforms, calling them a 'disaster about to happen' that will trash vital protections.
Birmingham's planning committee has refused a 263-bed student accommodation tower, fearing harm to historic buildings like the Town Hall. Read the full debate.
Planning Inspectorate dismisses appeal for eight apartments in Blackheath, upholding Dudley Council's refusal. The scheme was deemed too dense and a risk to pedestrian safety.
New government planning proposals could see residential gardens used for new homes. Read the full details of the consultation and the political row it has sparked.
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.
Rochdale Borough Council has issued decisions on a range of planning applications, including home extensions, tree removals, and commercial changes. Discover the latest outcomes for properties across the borough.
A new 24-hour KFC drive-thru could be built opposite West Bromwich Albion's stadium, replacing earlier Tim Hortons plans. The proposal includes 30 jobs and EV charging points.
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.
Solihull Council has refused plans for 80 new homes on green belt land in Hockley Heath, citing unresolved flood risks. Read the full story on the local planning clash.
West Midlands Cars in Wednesbury has lost its appeal to continue operating. The council cited severe congestion and safety risks. Read the full timeline and outcome.
A week of drama at Birmingham City Council includes a legal threat over regeneration, ongoing bins strike chaos, and a shark-suited spectator. Get the full update.
From a historic pub facelift to a new fly-tipping crackdown, here's your roundup of the latest news and decisions from Solihull Council this week.
A developer makes a third attempt to build a petrol station, shop, and car wash on a site in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, closed since 2005. Previous bids were rejected over noise and design concerns.
A new AI tool called Objector generates planning objections in minutes, raising fears of an automated 'nimbyism' arms race that could undermine housing development across the UK.
Birmingham City Council faces public fury over the year-long bins strike, with costs exceeding £14m. Read the latest on the political fallout and why a resolution remains elusive.
Birmingham City Council confirms demolition of vandalism-hit Druids Heath tower blocks will start in early 2025, as residents complain of neglect during regeneration delays.