Find everything you need - local businesses, local events, local groups, local information

Month: December 2025

Walsall Marks Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2026

Walsall Council has marked Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2026, supporting the national campaign to raise awareness and highlight the support available to victims and survivors.

The awareness week, which ran from 2 to 8 February, takes place annually across the UK and focuses on challenging stigma, encouraging conversations and promoting the message that abuse and violence are never acceptable.

Working alongside partners in the Safer Walsall Partnership, the council used the week to reinforce the campaign message #ItsNotOk, while also signposting residents to local and national support services.

Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Safer Communities at Walsall Council, said:

“ Sexual abuse and violence have no place in our community. Raising awareness is about breaking the silence, challenging harmful attitudes, and making it clear that survivors are believed, supported, and never to blame.

As a council, we are committed to working with partners to ensure help is available and that everyone can feel safe and respected. This commitment cannot be realised without our communities, and we will continue to build stronger partnerships with them over the coming years to challenge this behaviour and support those who are victims “

Walsall Council works with a range of organisations, including NHS services, to provide support for those affected by sexual abuse and violence.

Children and young people can be referred to the West Midlands Regional Children and Young People Sexual Assault Service, which supports individuals from birth up to 17 years old, as well as young adults aged up to 25 with complex needs.

A specialist Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), based at Darlaston Health Centre in Wednesbury, offers 24-hour support, seven days a week. The service provides medical care, practical help and emotional support, delivered by trained professionals including paediatricians, forensic nurse examiners and support workers.

The council has also highlighted some of the potential signs of abuse, which can include changes in behaviour, withdrawal, unexplained injuries, sleep difficulties and reluctance to be alone with certain individuals.

Support is available for both children and adults through a range of services. These include Walsall Council’s children’s and adult social care teams, as well as national organisations such as Childline, NSPCC, Refuge, Rape Crisis and Samaritans.

Further information about local services can be found via Walsall’s Integrated Sexual Health Service website and the Walsall Safeguarding Partnership.

Residents who may be affected, or who are concerned about someone else, are encouraged to seek support and access the services available.

£70m Investment Drives Forward Walsall Town Centre Regeneration

Walsall town centre is undergoing a significant transformation, with more than £70 million secured to support regeneration projects and visible progress made throughout 2025.

This includes £20.25 million from the Community Regeneration Partnership (CRP) fund, secured in February 2025, contributing to a wider £1.5 billion programme of investment across the borough. Over the past year, several key schemes have moved from planning into delivery, bringing renewed energy to the town centre.

Reviving the town centre

At the heart of the transformation is the Connected Gateway Project, designed to improve connectivity between the town’s bus and rail stations while enhancing retail spaces and the overall visitor experience.

A major milestone was reached in October 2025 with the completion of the first phase, which saw the full refurbishment of Bradford Mall within the Saddlers Centre. The restoration also marked the return of the much-loved Three Men in a Boat automaton.

Work is continuing with the appointment of contractor Keir to deliver the next phase. This includes redevelopment of Park Mall and the planned demolition of buildings on Park Street in early 2026 to create a new public plaza and strengthen links between transport hubs.

Improving connections and public spaces

Further improvements are planned to strengthen connections across the town centre. A new canal footbridge is due to be delivered in 2026, linking residential areas near the canal basin with Crown Wharf and the wider town centre.

In addition, a new canal maintenance barge, Sister Dora, was launched in November 2025. Operated by the Canal & River Trust, it will support the upkeep of local waterways and contribute to the long-term enhancement of Walsall’s canal network.

Restoring heritage and creating opportunity

The restoration of the Grade II* listed Guildhall is another key project progressing through 2025, with completion expected in summer 2026. Once reopened, it will operate as a Creative Industries Enterprise Centre, providing flexible workspace and opportunities for local businesses and community use.

Meanwhile, plans are advancing to transform the former Marks & Spencer building into a new Adult Learning Centre. The facility will support skills development and employability, with construction expected to begin in 2026 ahead of a planned opening in September 2027.

Investment in young people has also been a focus, with the opening of a new youth hub, Our Place, in the Saddlers Centre. Since launching in July 2025, it has welcomed over 1,300 visits from young people.

A long-term vision

In December 2025, the council approved a new Town Centre Framework, setting out a long-term vision for Walsall as a greener, healthier and more accessible place. The framework will guide development over the next 15 to 20 years, shaping investment in infrastructure, public spaces, culture and community facilities.

As projects continue into 2026 and beyond, further visible changes are expected across the town centre, with regeneration driven by partnership working, community input and long-term planning.

“ The past year has been truly transformational for Walsall. We are seeing major regeneration schemes move from paper into delivery, and residents can now feel and see positive change taking shape. Whether it’s the refurbishment of Bradford Mall, the return of Three Men In a Boat, the renewal of the Guildhall, the planned canal footbridge, or the arrival of the new Adult Learning Centre, these projects show our long-term commitment to building a thriving town centre that serves local people. With more investment still to come, the next two years will be even more exciting. “

Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader
Walsall Council

Walsall Council Urges Caution Over Off-Road Bikes and E-Scooters This Christmas

Walsall Council is urging parents and carers to think carefully before purchasing off-road motorbikes or e-scooters as Christmas presents, highlighting the legal restrictions and safety risks associated with their use.

Off-road vehicles, including quad bikes and similar machines, are classed as motor vehicles. This means they must meet strict legal requirements to be used on public highways. Where they do not meet these standards, they can be seized and riders may face prosecution.

Even on private land, riders must have the landowner’s permission. However, they can still face legal consequences if the vehicles are used in a dangerous or careless manner.

Privately owned e-scooters also remain illegal to use on public roads, pavements and cycle lanes. Anyone found using them in public spaces risks having the vehicle confiscated.

The illegal use of off-road bikes, electric bikes, quad bikes and e-scooters continues to be an issue across the borough. Enforcement activity is carried out through joint operations, including Op Adhesion, which brings together specialist police teams, including off-road bike units and aerial support from the National Police Air Service.

Sergeant David Hadley, from the Problem Solving and Priorities Team in Walsall, said, “The anti-social use of off-road vehicles and e-scooters is not only dangerous but also illegal, and the risks to members of the public are very real.

“Parents may think they are giving their children a fun gift at Christmas but in reality they could be exposing them to serious harm and putting themselves at risk of prosecution. So please think twice before buying these vehicles as Christmas presents.”

Councillor Adam Hicken added, “We understand the excitement of buying a special Christmas gift, but parents need to be fully aware of the legal and safety implications of off-road bikes and e-scooters. When used illegally or irresponsibly, these vehicles put riders and the wider public at serious risk and cause significant distress in our communities.

“We’ve already had deaths and serious injuries in our area due to people riding off-road bikes recklessly. We will support police to track down and deal with offenders”.

Residents can report illegal use of off-road bikes by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Concerns can also be reported to Walsall Council’s Community Protection Team by emailing communityprotection@walsall.gov.uk or calling 01922 653060.

Walsall Residents Invited to Get Creative in ‘Fossil of the Year’ Art Competition

Walsall residents of all ages are being encouraged to explore the region’s ancient past and showcase their creativity by entering the Black Country UNESCO Global Geopark Fossil of the Year Art Competition.

The international competition celebrates the rich fossil heritage of the Black Country, including discoveries found in Walsall, and invites participants to create artwork inspired by prehistoric sea creatures, plants and other life forms preserved beneath the region’s landscape.

Open to all ages, the competition allows entrants to use any artistic medium, including drawing, painting or mixed media, with submissions made digitally. Entries will be judged across two categories: under-12s and over-12s.

Winners will receive a family guided fossil hunting experience at Wrens Nest National Nature Reserve, along with a £25 voucher for art materials.

Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Health and Wellbeing, said, “This is a brilliant opportunity for people in Walsall to celebrate our shared Black Country heritage. Many residents know about the area’s history of industry, but fewer know that some of the most important fossils in the world were discovered right here.

This competition gives people of all ages the chance to express their creativity while learning about the ancient life beneath our borough. I’d love to see Walsall artists young and old take part and even win the competition”

The Black Country UNESCO Global Geopark spans Walsall, Dudley, Sandwell and Wolverhampton, telling a geological story that stretches back more than 428 million years. Fossils found across the area provide insight into a time when the region was covered by shallow tropical seas, home to a wide range of prehistoric life.

For those seeking inspiration, Dudley Museum at the Archives offers free entry and displays some of the most significant fossil finds from across the Black Country.

Winning entries from the local competition will go on to represent the region in the wider European Geoparks Fossil of the Year 2026 competition. The overall European winner is expected to be announced in May 2026, marking the birthday of pioneering geologist Mary Anning.

To enter, participants should create a fossil-themed artwork and submit a digital image to:
📧 blackcountrygeopark@dudley.gov.uk

Entries must be received by 5pm on 31 December 2025 and should include the participant’s name, age, address and contact details.

Three Individuals Prosecuted as Walsall Council Steps Up Action on Littering

Three individuals have been successfully prosecuted for littering offences as Walsall Council continues its efforts to tackle environmental crime across the borough.

Each case resulted in fines after the individuals failed to pay Fixed Penalty Notices issued for depositing and leaving litter in public places.

On 20 October 2025, Mr Henry Carless, of Kingstanding Road, Birmingham, was convicted at Birmingham & Solihull Magistrates’ Court for an offence committed on 17 April 2025 on High Street, Pelsall. He was ordered to pay a £220 fine, an £88 victim surcharge and £276.72 in costs, bringing the total to £584.72.

On 17 October 2025, Mr Shakiel Powell, of Parkside Road, Halesowen, appeared at Dudley Magistrates’ Court for depositing litter on 15 March 2025, also on High Street, Pelsall. Taking into account his circumstances as a student and an early guilty plea, he was fined £60, with a £24 victim surcharge and £85 in costs, totalling £169.

In a separate case, Mr Jake Chad Webb, of Glyn Avenue, Bilston, was convicted at Birmingham & Solihull Magistrates’ Court on 14 October 2025 for an offence committed on 10 December 2024 in New Invention Square, Willenhall. He was ordered to pay a £40 fine, £16 victim surcharge and £100 in costs, totalling £156.

“ A lot of the Fixed Penalty Notices we issue get paid on time, but let this serve as a warning, we will seek to take people to court where necessary.

“Everyone has a responsibility to dispose of their waste properly. Our enforcement work will continue, and we will keep targeting those who think they can get away with this behaviour. “

Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities

Income generated from fines is reinvested into enforcement activity, including CCTV monitoring and investigations, helping to identify offenders and reduce incidents of littering and fly-tipping.

Residents are encouraged to dispose of waste responsibly by using Walsall’s Household Waste Recycling Centres or by booking a bulky item collection service through the council.

Fly-tipping can be reported online at:
👉 https://go.walsall.gov.uk/apply/myaccount-online-services/report-fly-tip
or by calling 01922 653355.

Walsall Christmas Gift Guide Showcases Local Talent and Unique Festive Finds

Walsall Council is encouraging residents to shop locally this festive season with its 2025 Christmas Gift Guide, celebrating the borough’s thriving creative community and independent businesses.

From handcrafted decorations to experience-based gifts, the guide highlights a wide range of options designed to support local makers while helping shoppers find thoughtful presents for loved ones.

In the lead-up to Christmas, many artists, crafters and small businesses spend months creating high-quality, often handmade products using locally sourced and sustainable materials. The guide aims to spotlight this talent while promoting the value of shopping within the local economy.

Creative and handcrafted gifts

At The New Art Gallery Walsall, shoppers can find beautifully hand-painted Kashmiri papier-mâché decorations. Inspired by traditional embroidery patterns, these ornaments feature intricate festive designs in rich colours and are available at affordable prices, supporting skilled artisans and preserving traditional craft techniques.

Meanwhile, the Walsall Leather Museum offers a range of high-quality leather goods, including handbags, wallets and belts. Many items are sourced from respected local manufacturers such as Abbey England, E. Hulme & Son and Whitehouse Cox. Visitors can also explore the museum’s Made in the Museum collection, featuring unique pieces crafted on-site.

Experiences and wellbeing gifts

For those looking beyond traditional presents, Walsall Leisure offers gym and swim memberships across its four centres: Bloxwich Active Living Centre, Darlaston Swimming and Fitness Centre, Oak Park Active Living Centre and Walsall Gala Swimming and Fitness Centre. Memberships provide access to a range of facilities and classes, offering a practical and health-focused gift option.

Experiences are also a key feature of the guide, with Walsall Arena and Arts Centre offering a packed programme of events in 2026. Highlights include live performances, comedy shows, tribute acts and special events catering to a wide range of interests.

Upcoming shows include appearances from mountaineer Simon Yates, an evening with Wolverhampton Wanderers legends, family-friendly K-pop performances, comedy from Jonny Cole, and live music celebrating country and classic hits. There are also events for true crime enthusiasts, including The Makings of a Murderer.

Supporting local this Christmas

By choosing gifts from local venues, shops and attractions, residents can play a vital role in supporting Walsall’s economy while discovering unique, meaningful presents.

Walsall Arena and Arts Centre tickets can be booked online at:
👉 www.walsallarena.com/whats-on

£150,000 Worth of Counterfeit Goods Seized at Bescot Market

Walsall Council’s Trading Standards team has seized around £150,000 worth of counterfeit goods following an enforcement operation at Bescot Market.

The joint operation, carried out on Sunday 7 December, involved West Midlands Police and private-sector brand protection teams. Officers targeted three stalls suspected of selling illegal items.

Among the goods seized were counterfeit clothing and imitation Apple AirPods. Many of these items raise serious safety concerns, particularly electrical products, which can contain substandard components. These can overheat, malfunction or even cause hearing damage, posing a genuine risk to consumers.

The action forms part of ongoing partnership work between Walsall Trading Standards, the National Markets Group (NMG) and Walsall Football Club to tackle the sale of counterfeit and unsafe goods.

Significant progress has been made at Bescot Market in recent years. The number of stalls selling counterfeit products has reduced considerably—from around 30 in 2020 to just three in 2025—reflecting sustained enforcement and collaboration with market operators.

“ Bescot Market has made huge strides in recent years, and we recognise the hard work of the market operator and Walsall FC in helping to tackle counterfeit trading.

“Counterfeit goods undermine legitimate businesses and can be dangerous for consumers. Electrical products in particular can put people at risk of fire, shock or hearing injury.

“This operation shows that while the situation has improved massively, we will continue working with our partners to ensure counterfeit and unsafe items have no place in Walsall. “

Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities

Walsall Council has confirmed it will continue working closely with partners to maintain compliance and protect shoppers from illegal and potentially dangerous products.

Residents who suspect counterfeit goods are being sold can report concerns to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

Hundreds of Littering Fines Issued in Walsall as Enforcement Crackdown Continues

Walsall Council has issued hundreds of fines for littering over the past year, as part of its continued efforts to tackle environmental crime across the borough.

A total of 588 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) were paid during 2025, with a further 22 cases progressing to court after fines were not settled within the required timeframe.

The council’s enforcement activity has remained consistent throughout the year, targeting individuals who continue to drop litter and negatively impact local streets, parks and neighbourhoods.

Officers have encountered a wide range of responses from those issued with fines. Among the more unusual explanations this year were claims that littering occurred due to a wasp inside a vehicle, suggestions that street cleaning was someone else’s responsibility, and assertions from individuals unfamiliar with local rules.

“ This has been a significant year for tackling those who continue to disrespect Walsall by littering, and the message is clear: if you litter in Walsall, you can expect enforcement action.

“Our investment in extra CCTV and additional legal capacity will only see our enforcement get stronger. We are absolutely committed to holding offenders to account and keeping Walsall clean for everyone. “

Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities

All income generated from fines is reinvested into enforcement work, supporting the expansion of CCTV coverage, monitoring, evidence gathering and further action to deter environmental offences.

Residents are reminded that there are a range of services available to help dispose of waste responsibly. Walsall operates two free Household Waste Recycling Centres at Fryers Road in Bloxwich and Merchants Way in Aldridge. A bulky waste collection service is also available for those unable to transport larger items.

Households with additional needs, such as larger families or medical requirements, can apply for a bigger bin through the council’s website.

Environmental crime, including fly-tipping, can be reported online at:
👉 https://go.walsall.gov.uk/apply/myaccount-online-services/report-fly-tip
or by calling 01922 653355.

York’s Bridge Reopens to Traffic as Major Pelsall Project Nears Completion

A key milestone has been reached in the York’s Bridge project in Pelsall, with traffic set to return to the route following the partial opening of a newly constructed bridge.

From 6pm on Tuesday 16 December, the existing road closure will be lifted, allowing vehicles to travel across the new bridge for the first time since works began earlier in the year.

The new structure has been built alongside the historic York’s Bridge and is designed to improve safety, access and long-term resilience along this important local route. By diverting traffic onto the new bridge, the original structure will be preserved while still maintaining connectivity for residents and road users.

Full completion of the project is expected by March 2026, with some final works still to be carried out. These include completing footways, installing lighting and signage, adding safety fencing, and finishing surfacing and landscaping.

“ I am very pleased we are now in a position to lift this road closure and get traffic moving again.

“I appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding around the disruption. We are now in the home stretch of this project, which will bring long-term benefits for local communities and everyone who uses this key route. “

Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader of Walsall Council

The road has been closed since 29 September to allow construction to take place safely, protecting both workers and the public throughout the build.

As well as improving transport links, the wider scheme will deliver additional community and environmental benefits. These include new parking bays to enhance access to Pelsall North Common, the creation of two ponds, and the planting of around 540 trees as saplings.

Once complete, the project will represent a significant infrastructure investment for the area, improving connectivity while safeguarding the historic bridge for future generations.

Walsall Society of Artists marks 75th Annual Exhibition at The New Art Gallery

The Walsall Society of Artists is celebrating a major milestone as it returns to The New Art Gallery Walsall for its 75th Annual Exhibition.

Running from 12 December 2025 to 15 February 2026, the exhibition showcases a vibrant collection of work from local artists, highlighting the depth and diversity of creative talent across the borough. Open daily between 10am and 4pm, the exhibition is free to attend and features a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography and textiles, with many pieces available to purchase.

A special preview evening will take place on Thursday 11 December from 6pm to 8pm, offering visitors an early opportunity to experience the exhibition.

“ I’m really looking forward to this exhibition and congratulations to the Walsall Society of Artists on their 75th anniversary exhibition.

The society has inspired many generations of artists and art lovers alike and this exhibition showcases the incredible talent of its members, a diverse group of local artists, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic emerging talents. “

Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council

Founded to inspire and support artistic practice, the Walsall Society of Artists continues to play an important role in nurturing creativity within the local community.

As part of this landmark exhibition, visitors can also enjoy a series of live art demonstrations taking place on selected Saturdays throughout January and February. These sessions provide a unique opportunity to watch artists at work and gain insight into a variety of techniques and styles, from traditional oil painting and watercolour to contemporary photography, mixed media and printmaking.

The programme includes demonstrations from a wide range of artists, offering something for both seasoned art enthusiasts and those looking to explore creative practice for the first time.

For more information about the exhibition, visit:
https://thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk/exhibition/walsall-society-of-artists-75th-annual-exhibition/

To find out more about the Walsall Society of Artists, visit:
www.walsallsocietyofartists.co.uk