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.
Category : Politics
Benefits fraud gang to repay only £2m of £53m haul
A Bulgarian gang behind the UK's biggest benefits fraud will repay just £2m after moving millions abroad. Five were jailed for 25 years combined. Read the full story.
Harborne Day Centre site sold for new food store
Birmingham City Council approves sale of closed Harborne Day Centre to a national retailer for a new supermarket, sparking debate over cuts to vital adult services. Read the full story.
Stealth taxes 'hammering' workers, says think tank
Analysis reveals workers face real-term income cuts due to frozen tax thresholds, while pensioners see gains. The Treasury defends its 'fair and necessary' budget decisions.
Birmingham Council's 2026 Challenges: Strikes & Finances
Birmingham City Council faces a critical year with ongoing strikes and financial fragility. Commissioners see progress but warn of major risks ahead. Read the full analysis.
Luxury Car Tax to Hit Everyday Vehicles Under Labour
New data reveals over 426,000 family vehicles will face the 'luxury' car tax from 2026. Chancellor Rachel Reeves adjusts EV threshold to £50,000. Read the full analysis.
£200 Cost-of-Living Payments Confirmed for 2026
Low-income households can apply for £200+ payments via the extended Household Support Fund in 2026. Check eligibility and apply to your local council now.
Reeves' 2026 Tax Warning for Earners Over £35,000
Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces criticism over frozen tax bands, a 'stealth tax' pulling thousands into higher rates. Learn how it impacts wages and pensions.
Universal Credit 2026: Rates and Changes Confirmed
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announces a 6.2% above-inflation rise to Universal Credit for 2026, alongside the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap. Find out how the changes will affect claimants.
Starmer's New Year pledge on cost of living
PM Keir Starmer vows 2026 will bring lower energy bills and scrapped benefit caps, offering relief to households. Read his full statement and analysis.
Major 2026 driving test rule changes for learners
The DVSA is introducing new rules in spring 2026 to make driving test bookings fairer. Learn how learner drivers will book their own tests and what limits will apply.
Birmingham Council's Four Major Risks Amid Recovery
Government commissioners warn of four critical risks, including the bins strike and equal pay liability, facing Birmingham City Council despite 'positive' steps. Read the latest on the authority's fragile financial future.
UK bans harmful AI apps in new £1bn safety strategy
The UK government unveils a £1bn strategy to tackle violence against women and girls, banning 'nudification' apps and introducing smartphone filters to block explicit images.
Birmingham's 2025: Strikes, Politics & Flag Wars
A look back at Birmingham's turbulent second half of 2025, from the unresolved bin strike and political infighting to divisive flag displays and a landmark new stadium plan.
Birmingham Approves Major Changes to Four Iconic Attractions
Birmingham City Council greenlights huge plans for Villa Park, Edgbaston Stadium, Botanical Gardens, and the Jewellery Quarter, securing their future and boosting the city's economy. Discover the details.
Solihull Christmas 2025 Bin Collection Changes
Solihull Council announces revised bin collection dates for Christmas and New Year 2025. Find out when to put your rubbish and recycling out over the festive period.
Biggest UK driving law changes for decades in 2026
The UK Government's 2026 road safety strategy will introduce the toughest drink-drive limit, mandatory eyesight tests for over-70s, and a pavement parking ban. Discover all the major changes coming.
Major Council Tax Overhaul Announced for England
Councils in England get a £78bn funding boost with a 3% council tax rise cap. Find out what the new multi-year settlement means for your local services.
New UK passport featuring King Charles III released
The first 300 new UK passports with King Charles III's coat of arms are now in circulation. Featuring enhanced security and UK landscapes, they are hailed as the most secure ever.
Workers on £52k hardest hit by new HMRC tax rules
Workers earning £52,000 will be worst affected by new tax changes, including a salary sacrifice cap and frozen thresholds. Discover how the 'triple whammy' impacts you.
Starmer's New Year address to UK as 2026 looms
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will deliver his New Year's message at 10.30pm tonight. Get the latest on his speech and the political rivals also addressing the nation.
Five Major Universal Credit Changes Confirmed for 2026
Major Universal Credit reforms for 2026 will leave many families hundreds of pounds better off, but bring tougher rules for others. Get the full details here.
Millions face 'invisible pay cut' from Budget rules
Professionals earning £45k-£55k face a stealth tax hit from pension cap and frozen thresholds. Discover how the Autumn Budget impacts your pay and career plans.
Drivers face 'significant' law change on jury trials
Motoring experts warn Labour's plan to scrap jury trials for some driving offences is a 'significant change' that could disproportionately impact professional drivers. Learn the risks.
Key 2026 Driving Law Updates for UK Motorists
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.
Andy Street hails West Midlands delivery record
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street reflects on his tenure, highlighting transport wins, housing progress, and the battle for more devolved powers. Read his full vision for the region.
Birmingham Council Leader Faces Reader Q&A on Key Issues
Birmingham City Council leader John Cotton faced a reader Q&A, addressing the Crown pub's future, 20mph speed limits, disability access, and library cuts. Read his responses and pledges.
£110 Cost of Living Vouchers for UK Households
Cambridgeshire households can apply for £110 supermarket vouchers under the Household Support Fund. Find out if you're eligible and how to claim before the deadline.
Dudley Council's 2026 regeneration plans revealed
Dudley Council outlines major regeneration projects for 2026, including a new bus station and Metro link, while confirming council tax will rise by 4.9%. Explore the key developments.
Reform UK ends Conservative control of Worcestershire Council
Reform UK seized minority control of Worcestershire County Council in 2025, ending two decades of Conservative rule. Discover the key events, financial crises, and political defections that reshaped the Midlands.
Page 25 of 59