Birmingham's biggest stories of 2025: January to June
A month-by-month look at the major political and community stories that shaped Birmingham in the first half of 2025, from the bin strike crisis to council bankruptcy fallout.
A month-by-month look at the major political and community stories that shaped Birmingham in the first half of 2025, from the bin strike crisis to council bankruptcy fallout.
A £2bn tax loophole allows non-bank lenders to deduct car finance compensation from profits, cutting their tax bill. Calls grow for the government to act. Read the full story.
A comprehensive guide to the major motoring law changes coming in 2026, from VED hikes and pay-per-mile plans to new congestion zones and compensation schemes. Stay informed to avoid fines.
UK drivers face seven major rule changes in 2026, including car tax hikes for electric vehicles, new licence swaps, and fresh congestion charges. Stay informed to avoid fines.
A Sandwell Council committee is set to decide on a new plan for eight flats in Great Barr after the developer demolished the former GP surgery without permission. Read the latest.
UK drivers could receive £700 compensation faster for mis-sold car finance. The FCA has moved the deadline for firms to handle complaints forward by two months. Find out if you're eligible.
Millions of UK drivers face reduced compensation in the car finance mis-selling scandal, as legal experts criticise the FCA's proposed payout scheme. Discover your rights.
Comedian Jason Manford returns to host the Royal Variety. We explore his career, his first marriage's breakdown after a sexting scandal, and his life with six children in a blended family.
Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Thomas Skinner is reportedly taking legal action against the BBC, alleging the show's public vote was manipulated. He claims to have proof of foul play. Read the full story.
Over 30 firefighters battled a significant blaze in a derelict Birmingham factory. Six crews attended the scene on Barr Street. Read the latest updates on the incident.
Kristin Cabot reveals the devastating personal fallout after a viral Coldplay concert moment. Read her powerful plea for kindness in the digital age.
A major fire broke out at a derelict three-storey building on Barr Street, Birmingham. Road closures are in place as multiple fire crews tackle the blaze. Avoid the area.
Pupils at Dorrington Academy in Perry Barr have raised over £6,000 for Birmingham Hospice by taking part in a festive Reindeer Run. The heartwarming community effort will support vital end-of-life care across the city.
Carers speak out after receiving brutal DWP letters demanding thousands in overpayments due to a 'cliff edge' earnings rule. Read the full story of the ongoing scandal.
Daniel Barr, an ex-Army labourer, is commended for his 'outstandingly brave' act of stopping a car that drove into a Liverpool victory parade crowd, injuring over 100. Read his incredible story.
Paul Doyle sentenced to 21 years for driving into Liverpool FC title parade crowd, injuring over 100. Hero bystander Daniel Barr stopped the vehicle. Full details of the shocking incident.
West Midlands Police confirm a man's death at a Perry Barr HMO is not suspicious. A report is now with the coroner. Read the latest updates.
Police confirm a man's death at a Perry Barr HMO is not suspicious. The man in his 40s was found in cardiac arrest on December 3. A report is being prepared for the coroner.
Married At First Sight UK star Leigh claps back at ex-husband Keye's 'shady' comment about Davide's new boyfriend. Get the full story on the MAFS UK feud.
The executive headteacher of two Birmingham nursery schools is absent as the council conducts a confidential internal process. Both schools remain open.
A dogwalker reports an unauthorised traveller encampment on Perry Park near Alexander Stadium. Read about the local concerns and council response.
Mystery surrounds the sudden departure of headteacher Helen Masaun from Perry Beeches and Marsh Hill Nursery Schools in Birmingham. The council confirms an 'internal process' is underway.
Sandwell Council has approved plans to demolish the former Perry Hill Tavern in Oldbury, ending its use as a focal point for crime and disturbance. New housing is planned for the site. Read the full story.
A murder investigation is underway in Birmingham after a man's body was discovered in a Perry Barr HMO. Three people have been arrested. Police urge witnesses to come forward.
A group of travellers in Perry Park, Birmingham, have been served notice to leave after reports of anti-social behaviour, fires, and damage. Read the latest on the situation.
A man in his 40s was found dead at a property on Walsall Road, Perry Barr. West Midlands Police have arrested three people on suspicion of murder. Contact police with information.
The FCA has issued a crucial update on the car finance scandal, setting a final deadline for complaints. Millions could receive £700 payouts. Read the latest.
West Midlands firefighters raced to a truck blaze on College Road, Perry Barr. No injuries reported. Read the full incident report and traffic update.
Thousands of UK carers face huge debts after DWP benefit overpayments. A 60-year-old woman caring for her family must repay £1,623. Read the shocking review findings.
An I'm A Celebrity star has been caught with smuggled butter, sparking a major camp punishment. Discover the rule break set to have 'huge repercussions' on the jungle.