The Original Factory Shop has collapsed into administration, putting 160 stores and thousands of jobs at risk. A major online clearance sale is now underway with free delivery on orders over £50.
The A45 Coventry Road in Sheldon will be closed towards Birmingham city centre from Friday night. Find out the diversion routes and which bus services are affected.
Sandwell Council plans a new £20m Passivhaus school in Brandhall Village to replace the structurally failing Causeway Green Primary. The 70-year-old building is the borough's worst. Read the latest.
Snow Hill Queensway in Birmingham city centre closes from 10-11 Jan 2026 for a crane lift. Key National Express bus routes diverted. Full diversion details here.
Snow Hill Queensway in Birmingham city centre closes from 10-11 January for a crane lift. National Express West Midlands services 7, 9, 12, 13, 16, 52, 74, 101, 126, X8 & X10 diverted. Full diversion details here.
Explore Ombersley, a Worcestershire village with over 150 listed buildings. Just 40 minutes from Birmingham, it's a perfectly preserved historic escape. Discover its pubs, cafes, and Georgian grandeur.
Budget supermarket Aldi unveils plans for a new £10m store on the edge of Devizes, promising around 40 new jobs and a drive-through coffee shop. Have your say in the public consultation.
The Silver End Amateur Dramatic Society presents Dick Whittington this January. Join the adventure at Silver End Village Hall. Book your tickets now!
Driver training has commenced at Birmingham's three new Camp Hill line stations, marking a major step towards restoring passenger services for the first time since WWII. Read the latest updates.
Explore Little Daydreams Role Play Café in Ombersley. Kids can drive a bus, visit a vet, and enjoy messy play while parents relax with coffee. Open now at The Farm Shop.
A new immersive role play village featuring a double decker bus has opened at a farm shop near Birmingham. Discover Little Daydreams, with its ice cream shed, vets, and sensory room.
A Wiltshire village shop that served the community for over 230 years is set for a final farewell as plans are submitted to convert the Grade II listed building into living accommodation. Read the full story.
The 15-year economic partnership between Swindon and Wiltshire has dissolved as councils pursue separate devolution deals. The Business and Growth Unit closes. Read the full analysis.
The A38M Aston Expressway is closed in both directions between Park Circus and Dartmouth Circus. National Highways warns drivers to allow extra time for journeys.
Shoppers praise Amazon's £12.99 Christmas tree storage bag for its sturdiness and space. With over 10,000 sold, it's a top pick for Twelfth Night takedowns. See the reviews and alternatives.
A plan for a permanent 'green stage' on Bournville Green has been submitted, aiming to boost arts and community events. The £63k project is led by a local consortium.
The Best Ever Brownie Company and Barn Café have shut their last branch for good due to financial pressures and founder health issues. Read the full story.
Explore Lapworth, a peaceful Warwickshire village with historic canals, National Trust houses, and a famous Scarecrow Festival. Perfect for a 2026 winter visit.
Disability charity Scope announces closure of 77 high street shops, putting 200 staff roles and 2,000 volunteers at risk. See the full list of affected stores.
Discover Broadway, the 'Jewel of the Cotswolds', a storybook village just 90 minutes from Birmingham. Its magical Christmas lights have captivated TikTok, making it a must-visit UK destination.
Primark is closing its Dartford store on January 3, the first such closure in 10 years, dealing a blow to the local high street. Staff face redundancy as the building requires major repairs.
A giant gorilla statue named Gerald has appeared on a canal-side tree stump in Wiltshire. The mystery was a 60th birthday gift that raised over £250 for charity. Discover the heartwarming story.
A collision has forced the closure of A459 Dudley Street in Sedgley, Dudley, in both directions. Drivers are warned of significant congestion. Avoid the area.
A major Black Country route is shut in both directions following a collision on Dudley Street in Sedgley. Drivers are warned to expect significant delays.
Discover a must-do road trip across the West Midlands, featuring nine stunning locations with ancient rock houses and picturesque rolling hills. Plan your adventure today!
Residents and parish councillors in Charlton, Worcestershire, strongly oppose plans for six bungalows on agricultural land, citing traffic and sustainability concerns. Read the full story.
A Warwickshire village is being 'destroyed' by HS2 construction, with a refugee saying the noise is louder than Kyiv bombs. The primary school is shrinking as families move away. Read the full story.
Discover Clent, a serene Worcestershire village just 10 miles from Birmingham. Offering stunning Clent Hills walks, panoramic views, and a cosy food scene, it's the perfect 2026 getaway.
Explore Kinver, a charming Staffordshire village less than an hour from Birmingham. Discover the famous Rock Houses, Kinver Edge, and fun canal activities. Plan your visit today!
Water Orton Primary School is set to reduce its yearly intake from 45 to 30 pupils by 2027. Local MP Rachel Taylor blames HS2 disruption for families leaving the area. Read the full story.