Category: News

Visitors to Walsall Arboretum could soon be enjoying refreshments at the park’s popular café once again, with the venue scheduled to reopen today (Monday 9 November) under new management.

The café temporarily closed its doors on Wednesday 4 November to allow for a change of operator, with Walsall Council taking over responsibility for running the facility.

A soft reopening was planned for Monday following the five-day closure, marking a new chapter for a familiar meeting place in one of Walsall’s best-loved green spaces.

Why did the Arboretum café close?

The temporary shutdown was arranged to allow the previous private operator to leave the premises and for the council to complete the handover.

The café was originally expected to close from Thursday 5 November, but the outgoing operator requested an additional day to clear the premises.

The closure was therefore brought forward to Wednesday 4 November, with the planned reopening date remaining unchanged.

The council has thanked visitors for their patience during the transition.

What changes can visitors expect?

One confirmed change is the introduction of card and contactless payments when the café resumes operating.

The move to council management also marks a change in how the popular facility will be run, although further details about the menu, prices and longer-term arrangements have yet to be confirmed.

The café provides a convenient stopping point for people enjoying the Arboretum, whether meeting friends, taking a family stroll or spending time outdoors.

A familiar favourite for Walsall residents

First opened in 1874, Walsall Arboretum remains one of the borough’s most recognisable attractions.

Its extensive grounds, picturesque Hatherton Lake, gardens, play areas and walking routes attract visitors throughout the year.

For many residents, the opportunity to stop for a hot drink or something to eat has long been part of a visit to the park.

With winter approaching, the café’s planned return will be welcome news for those who enjoy walking around the Arboretum during the colder months.

Visitors are advised to check the latest opening arrangements before making a special journey, as the council has not yet confirmed the full details of the café’s new operation.

Walsall residents can now report a wider range of neighbourhood concerns online, thanks to new digital forms introduced by Walsall Council.

From noisy neighbours and anti-social behaviour to fly-tipping and concerns about taxis, the expanded online reporting service aims to make it easier for people to raise issues affecting their local communities.

The forms are available 24 hours a day, allowing residents to submit reports at a time that suits them without having to contact the council directly.

Each form takes users through the reporting process, helping them provide the information needed for the council to investigate their concerns. Residents can also upload photographs and other supporting evidence where appropriate.

What can residents report?

The new service covers a variety of environmental and community safety issues, including noise complaints, smoke nuisance, intrusive artificial lighting and rubbish accumulating on private property.

Residents can also raise concerns about fly-tipping on privately owned land or overgrown trees, hedges and other vegetation obstructing pavements, roads, traffic signs or street lighting.

Other reporting options include anti-social behaviour, unauthorised encampments, potential problems with licensed businesses and activities, and complaints involving taxis or private hire vehicles licensed by Walsall Council.

Once a form has been submitted, residents will receive an email confirming their report, together with a unique reference number.

The council will then assess the information, determine how the matter should be handled and contact the person who submitted the report about their case.

Council encourages residents to speak up

Councillor Ian Benton, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement at Walsall Council, welcomed the introduction of the new forms and highlighted the importance of residents helping to identify local problems.

“Residents are our eyes and ears on the ground, and these new forms make it easier to report issues affecting our neighbourhoods and bring them to our attention.

Everyone should feel safe in their home and community, and we are committed to taking action and tackling issues and behaviour that affects others.

The more detail residents can provide when reporting a concern, the better we can assess the issue and determine what action is needed.”

How to report a concern

Residents can select the appropriate reporting form directly from Walsall Council’s website:

• Report anti-social behaviour
• Report fly-tipping on private land
• Report accumulated rubbish
• Report smoke nuisance
• Report an unauthorised encampment
• Report concerns about taxis or private hire vehicles
• Report a licensing concern
• Report nuisance lighting
• Report noise nuisance
• Report overgrown vegetation
• Report grounds maintenance or grass-cutting problems

Help available for residents

Anyone who experiences difficulties using the online reporting system can seek assistance at their nearest Walsall Connected hub.

Alternatively, residents can telephone Walsall Council’s Customer Experience Centre on 01922 650000.

The council has emphasised that the forms are designed for non-emergency situations. Suspected criminal activity should be reported to West Midlands Police, while anyone witnessing a crime in progress or an incident involving immediate danger should call 999.

The new reporting options are intended to give residents a more convenient way to highlight local concerns and help the council identify issues affecting neighbourhoods across the borough.

Walsall residents could face another increase in council tax next year as the council considers plans to tackle a multimillion-pound shortfall in its finances.

Walsall Council has published its draft budget for the 2027/28 financial year, outlining approximately £26.3 million in proposed savings and efficiencies alongside a potential 3.99% council tax increase.

Despite these measures, the local authority is still facing a funding gap of £10.057 million, with further work needed to balance its finances.

The proposals are now open for public consultation, giving residents across Walsall, Bloxwich, Aldridge, Brownhills, Willenhall and Darlaston an opportunity to have their say.

Why is Walsall Council facing financial difficulties?

Like many local authorities across England, Walsall Council is dealing with rising costs and increasing demand for essential services.

Adult social care and children’s services are placing particular pressure on council finances, with the authority having to balance growing demand against the funding available.

The council is also seeking additional government support for public health services and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) funding.

Council leader Elaine Williams has acknowledged the difficult decisions ahead, stressing that the authority must continue providing essential services while managing its financial responsibilities.

How much could council tax increase?

The draft budget includes a proposed council tax increase of 3.99% for 2027/28.

Although this would be lower than the 4.99% increases implemented in each of the previous three years, it would still mean an additional expense for households already facing pressure on their finances.

However, the proposed increase is not yet confirmed.

The council will consider consultation responses and its financial position before making a final decision in February 2027.

Residents encouraged to have their say

Walsall Council is inviting residents to comment on the proposed savings, spending priorities and council tax increase.

The consultation will remain open until 11.59pm on Tuesday 1 December 2026.

Residents can participate online through the council’s website or submit their views by email, telephone or post.

Feedback will be considered before updated budget proposals are presented to Cabinet in January. The final budget is scheduled to go before Full Council on Thursday 25 February 2027.

With millions of pounds still needed to balance the books, the coming months will be important for determining how Walsall funds its services and what residents will be expected to contribute.

Motorists and bus passengers travelling through Brownhills are being warned to prepare for disruption as a five-day road closure comes into force on Monday 9 November.

A section of Brownhills High Street, between Highfields Road and Milestone Way, will remain closed around the clock until Friday 13 November, affecting local traffic and public transport services.

The closure is expected to cause inconvenience for residents travelling through the area, particularly those relying on the number 8 bus service, which connects Walsall town centre with Lichfield.

How will bus services be affected?

Passengers using the number 8 service will need to allow additional time for their journeys while temporary diversions are in place.

Buses heading towards Lichfield will leave their usual route at Ogley Hay Road before travelling along Hospital Road, Chase Road, Springfield Road and Bridge Cross Road. Services will then rejoin their normal route.

Buses travelling towards Walsall will follow the same diversion in the opposite direction.

The changes will remain in place throughout the closure, including during the morning and evening commuting periods.

When will Brownhills High Street reopen?

The road closure is currently scheduled to finish on Friday 13 November, although passengers are advised to check for any changes to local travel arrangements before setting off.

The reason for the closure has not yet been confirmed in the published travel information.

Residents who regularly travel through Brownhills, including those commuting to work or attending appointments, may wish to consider alternative routes during the five-day period.

Bus passengers can check the latest service information through Transport for West Midlands and their bus operator before travelling.

Parking in Walsall is getting a little more convenient, with motorists now able to choose from a wider range of payment apps when using selected council-run car parks and on-street parking spaces.

Walsall Council has joined the National Parking Platform (NPP), a nationwide initiative designed to make paying for parking easier, whether you’re heading into town for some shopping, visiting friends or travelling further afield.

The change means drivers are no longer restricted to using just one payment provider at participating locations. Instead, they can choose from a selection of approved parking apps, making it easier to stick with a service they already know and use.

What does the change mean for Walsall drivers?

Anyone who regularly travels between towns and cities will know the frustration of arriving at a car park only to discover they need to download yet another app to pay.

The National Parking Platform aims to tackle this problem by connecting different parking payment providers through one shared network.

Supported by the Department for Transport, the initiative allows motorists to use their preferred approved app at participating parking locations across the country.

And for those who prefer a more traditional way to pay, there’s good news too. Existing payment machines will remain in place at designated Walsall Council car parks where they are currently provided, so using a smartphone won’t be the only option.

Councillor Ian Benton, Walsall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement, welcomed the changes.

“The National Parking Platform gives drivers more choice and flexibility when paying for parking in Walsall. We want parking services to be straightforward and convenient for residents and visitors, and this is another step towards offering a more modern service that meets people’s needs.

“By allowing drivers to use their preferred payment app at participating locations, the platform can also make parking simpler when people travel beyond the borough.”

Part of a growing national parking network

Walsall is joining a network that already covers more than 1,500 parking locations across 24 local authorities, with further expansion planned.

The system has been developed to encourage greater choice and competition between parking payment providers, while creating a more consistent experience for drivers.

David Sinclair, Executive Director of the National Parking Platform, said:

“Walsall joining the National Parking Platform is another positive step for parking across the West Midlands. Giving drivers more choice over how they pay makes parking simpler, whether they’re visiting Walsall’s town centre, shopping locally or travelling across the region. We’re delighted to welcome Walsall Council and support a more connected approach to parking.”

Will parking cost more?

Although the new system offers greater flexibility, motorists should be aware that different payment apps may apply their own service fees.

Some providers may also charge extra for optional features, including text message confirmations and reminders when a parking session is about to expire.

Drivers are therefore encouraged to check any additional charges before confirming their payment.

The new arrangements apply to participating council parking locations rather than every car park in Walsall.

For local residents and visitors, the change should mean fewer apps to download, more payment options and a simpler way to park when travelling around Walsall and beyond.

From spectacular fireworks and Christmas markets to live comedy, music and family activities, Walsall has a packed calendar of events this November.

With Christmas just around the corner, venues across Walsall are preparing for a busy month of entertainment, seasonal celebrations and community events. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, an evening at the theatre or an opportunity to support local artists and makers, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s our guide to what’s happening in Walsall throughout November 2026.

Fireworks Spectacular Lights Up Walsall Arboretum

Saturday 7 November | From 5pm | Walsall Arboretum

Walsall’s annual Fireworks Spectacular promises an evening of entertainment for the whole family, with Black Country radio favourite Dicky Dodd hosting the celebrations.

The gates open at 5pm, with live entertainment beginning at 5.30pm. Visitors can also enjoy fairground attractions and a selection of street food before the main fireworks display lights up the sky at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available through TicketSource.

Walsall Marks Remembrance Sunday

Sunday 8 November | From 10.30am | Walsall Town Centre

Residents are invited to come together to remember those who lost their lives in service to their country.

A Remembrance Sunday parade will take place through Walsall town centre, followed by a service of remembrance at the Cenotaph in Bradford Place.

Further information about services across the borough can be found on the Walsall Council website.

Winter MakerFest Brings Christmas Cheer to the Town Centre

Saturday 21 November | 3.30pm to 6.30pm | Walsall Town Centre

Walsall’s Winter MakerFest returns later this month, bringing together local creativity, entertainment and festive celebrations.

The town centre will host an afternoon and evening of live performances, including music, dance and singing, alongside interactive workshops where visitors can try their hand at something creative.

With Christmas lights adding to the atmosphere, the event offers an opportunity for families and friends to enjoy the town centre while celebrating Walsall’s creative community.

Updates are available from @makerfest on Instagram and @ourwalsall and @bostincreative on Facebook.

Comedy, Music and Theatre at Walsall Arena

Walsall Arena & Arts Centre in Leamore has a varied programme this November, featuring well-known entertainers, tribute performances and family-friendly productions.

Brian Conley Headlines Comedy Night

Saturday 7 November | 7.30pm | Tickets £32 | Ages 16+

Comedy favourite Brian Conley takes centre stage at the latest Funny Beeseness show, with support from Birmingham comedian Lindsey Santoro and political satirist President Obonjo.

Resident MC Wayne Beese will host the evening, bringing together an entertaining line-up of comedy talent.

The Best of Bublé: Home for Christmas

Thursday 12 November | 7.30pm | Tickets from £31.50

Get into the Christmas spirit with Josh Hindle, one of the UK’s leading Michael Bublé tribute performers.

The show celebrates the Canadian singer’s much-loved music, bringing his distinctive sound and festive favourites to the Walsall stage.

Supreme Queen 2026

Friday 13 November | 7.30pm | Tickets £32

Queen fans can look forward to an evening celebrating the legendary rock band’s greatest hits.

Tribute act Supreme Queen recreates the music and atmosphere associated with Freddie Mercury and his bandmates in a live concert experience.

Let the Music Play: The Legend of Barry White

Saturday 14 November | 7.30pm | Tickets from £32

American vocalist William Hicks brings the unmistakable sound of Barry White to Walsall.

Joined by Soul Unlimited and the Motown Supreme Dreamgirls, Hicks pays tribute to the Grammy Award-winning soul legend with a performance celebrating his rich vocals and timeless music.

The Magic Flute

Wednesday 18 November | 7pm | Tickets £12, concessions £10 | Ages 7+

Mozart’s famous opera receives a fresh interpretation in this imaginative production from Protein Dance.

Combining movement, music and storytelling, The Magic Flute offers an accessible theatrical experience for children and adults alike.

The 1pm performance is sold out, although tickets were still listed as available for the 7pm show.

The ELO Tribute Show

Friday 20 November | 7.30pm | Tickets from £32

Fans of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra can enjoy an evening dedicated to the band’s distinctive sound.

Featuring live musicians, a string section, colourful lighting effects, lasers and a giant spaceship, the production brings ELO’s music to life on stage.

Massaoke: Christmas Live

Saturday 21 November | 7.30pm | Tickets from £29

If you love a festive singalong, Massaoke: Christmas Live could be the perfect night out.

This interactive concert encourages the entire audience to join in with well-known Christmas songs, turning the venue into one enormous festive choir.

Travelling Through Christmas

Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 November | 7pm | Tickets from £10

Young singers from schools across Walsall will take to the stage for a special seasonal concert presented by Walsall Music Service.

Following months of preparation with their teachers, the children will perform a collection of 11 songs, combining traditional carols with other festive music.

The performances celebrate the enthusiasm, teamwork and musical achievements of Walsall’s young people.

Coming in December: Beauty and the Beast

5 to 20 December | Tickets from £15

Families can also look ahead to Walsall Arena’s Christmas pantomime, Beauty and the Beast.

Following the success of last year’s sell-out production of The Wizard of Oz, the venue is preparing another festive adventure featuring colourful costumes, musical performances, comedy and plenty of audience participation.

A BSL-interpreted performance is scheduled for Sunday 6 December, with discounted rates available for schools and groups.

For tickets and further information about Walsall Arena’s programme, visit www.walsallarena.com or call 0300 555 2898.

Art, Exhibitions and Creative Activities at The New Art Gallery Walsall

The New Art Gallery Walsall also has plenty to offer throughout November, including exhibitions, workshops and activities for children.

Explore the Black Country Through Art

Vibration Calibration: Black Country Type & Claire Buckerfield

Until 28 February 2027 | Free admission

Artists Claire Buckerfield and Tom Hicks, known as Black Country Type, have joined forces for an exhibition exploring the region’s identity and industrial heritage.

Through their individual artistic approaches, the pair invite visitors to reconsider familiar Black Country landscapes and the stories connected to them.

Laura Onions Exhibition

Until 6 December 2026 | Free admission

Printmaker Laura Onions explores relationships between people, history and the natural world.

Drawing on archival material and feminist approaches to learning, her work uses printmaking to encourage discussion and connections with the environment.

Charmaine Watkiss: The Things We Hold Sacred

Until 11 April 2027 | Free admission

British artist Charmaine Watkiss presents an exhibition of drawings and sculptures exploring cultural heritage, ancestral knowledge and the relationship between plants, people and history.

The exhibition includes newly commissioned pieces alongside works from private and museum collections.

A free British Sign Language tour, led by Deaf artist Olivier Jamin, will take place on Saturday 21 November at 2pm. The tour welcomes both Deaf and hearing visitors.

Creative Workshops and Family Events

Alongside its exhibitions, The New Art Gallery Walsall is hosting a series of activities for visitors of different ages.

Amulets of Protection Workshop

Saturday 7 November | 10am to 4pm | £22.50 to £25 | Ages 18+

Artist Tereza Bušková will lead a creative workshop inspired by her Mothers without Hands exhibition.

Participants will explore the significance of protective amulets before designing wearable pieces incorporating personal objects. Materials and refreshments are included, but advance booking is essential.

Sunday Art Club

Every Sunday | 12pm to 3pm | Free | Ages 4+

The gallery’s weekly art sessions give children and families a chance to explore their creativity through different materials and techniques.

November’s activities include:

• 8 November: Alphabet Makers, experimenting with colourful letter designs.
• 15 November: High Flying Birds, making decorative hanging bird mobiles.
• 22 November: Print in Place, creating prints inspired by architecture.
• 29 November: Winter Snowflake Patterns, designing seasonal snowflake artwork.

All sessions are free, with no advance booking required.

Baby & Me

Wednesday 11 November | 10.30am to 12pm and 12.30pm to 2pm | £4 per child

Parents and carers with children aged from birth to two years can enjoy specially designed multi-sensory activities.

Booking is required through the gallery reception or by calling 01922 654400.

Celebrate Diwali at The New Art Gallery

Saturday 14 November | 11am to 3pm | Free admission

The gallery will celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with a day of performances, art and cultural activities.

Visitors can enjoy Bharatanatyam dance from Jnan Deep Kundu, poetry by Rupinder Kaur and performances from Angeli Das & Co.

There will also be hands-on art workshops led by Daya Bhatti and Nilupa Yasmin, mehndi from Mrs Bedi and sweet treats courtesy of Hargun Sweet Centre.

The celebration is open to visitors of all ages.

Walk and Draw

Saturday 14 November | 11am to 12.30pm | Free

Discover Walsall from an artistic perspective during this guided sketching activity.

Participants will find inspiration in the gallery’s collections, the surrounding architecture and views of the town, including the canal, public sculptures and historic buildings.

Advance booking is essential.

Spark Young Writers

Saturday 21 November | 10.30am to 12.30pm | £10 per session

Young people aged eight to 12 who enjoy storytelling and creative writing can develop their skills at Spark Young Writers.

The sessions are designed for children in school Years 4 to 7, with some free places available.

Booking is required through sparkwriters.org.

Christmas Makers’ Market

Saturday 28 November | 11am to 3pm | Free admission

Looking for a Christmas gift that’s a little different?

The New Art Gallery Walsall will host its annual Christmas Makers’ Market, featuring handmade products and original creations from local artists and craftspeople.

The market provides a chance to discover unique gifts while supporting independent makers from the area.

Make the Most of November in Walsall

From spectacular evening entertainment to free family workshops, November offers plenty of reasons to get out and explore Walsall.

With festive celebrations beginning across the borough, it’s also an opportunity to shop locally, discover creative talent and enjoy the events bringing the community together in the run-up to Christmas.

Planning a visit to The New Art Gallery Walsall?

The gallery is located at Gallery Square, Walsall, WS2 8LG. Opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm, and Sunday, 11am to 4pm. The gallery is closed on Mondays and bank holidays.

Visitors are advised to check individual event details and ticket availability before travelling.

Major plans to transform Sutton Coldfield town centre are moving forward, and local residents are being invited to have their say on proposals that could reshape how people travel, shop and spend time in the Royal Town.

The £25 million Royal Sutton Coldfield Gateway Scheme aims to improve access to the town centre, create better connections for pedestrians and cyclists, and make the area more welcoming for residents, businesses and visitors.

With the project now progressing through its next stage of development, a public consultation has opened, giving local people the opportunity to view the latest designs and share their opinions before plans are finalised.

What’s planned for Sutton Coldfield town centre?

The Gateway Scheme forms part of wider ambitions to revitalise Sutton Coldfield town centre, making it easier for people to get around while encouraging more visitors to explore local shops, businesses and attractions.

The proposals focus on improving public transport connections, walking routes, cycling facilities and accessibility for people using wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

By improving how people travel into and around the town centre, the project also hopes to attract new investment, support local businesses and encourage visitors to spend more time in Sutton Coldfield.

The scheme supports the ambitions outlined in the Sutton Coldfield Town Centre Masterplan, which sets out a longer-term vision for the area’s regeneration.

Where has the £25 million come from?

Funding for the project was secured in 2022 by the Town Centre Regeneration Partnership, working alongside the Rt Hon Andrew Mitchell MP.

The £25 million Government investment comes from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS), a programme designed to support transport improvements across the region.

Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council has been working with Birmingham City Council and Transport for the West Midlands to move the project forward.

Birmingham City Council is responsible for delivering the scheme, while the West Midlands Combined Authority oversees the funding arrangements.

The project must pass three stages of approval before construction can begin: the Strategic Outline Case, Outline Business Case and Full Business Case.

The first stage has already been approved, and engineering and consultancy firm Mott MacDonald has been appointed to help develop the next phase.

However, the proposals are still being developed, and the full scheme has not yet received final approval.

Residents invited to help shape the plans

Local people now have an opportunity to influence how the scheme develops, with a public consultation running from Thursday 22 October until Thursday 3 December 2026.

Residents can explore the latest plans and images, learn more about the proposed improvements and submit their feedback online.

The consultation is available at Birmingham Be Heard: Sutton Gateway.

For anyone who would prefer to discuss the plans face-to-face, three public drop-in sessions have also been arranged.

When and where are the public consultation events?

All three events will take place at Sutton Coldfield United Reformed Church, 1 Brassington Avenue, B73 6AA.

Members of the project team will be available to explain the proposals, answer questions and listen to residents’ views.

The sessions are scheduled for:

• Thursday 12 November: 2pm to 7pm
• Wednesday 18 November: 8am to 11am
• Saturday 21 November: 11am to 3pm

Anyone with questions about the scheme can also contact the project team by emailing Transport@birmingham.gov.uk.

A chance to influence Sutton Coldfield’s future

The Gateway Scheme represents a significant proposed investment in Sutton Coldfield, with the potential to change how residents and visitors access and experience the town centre.

While the project is still some way from construction, the current consultation gives local people an opportunity to raise concerns, suggest improvements and help shape the final designs.

Whether you’re a regular shopper, local business owner, commuter, cyclist or simply someone who cares about the future of Sutton Coldfield, the project team is encouraging residents to get involved.

The consultation closes on Thursday 3 December 2026.

Further background information about the scheme can be found in the Royal Sutton Coldfield Gateway project document.

Walsall’s much-loved Fireworks Spectacular is returning to the Arboretum this November, promising an evening of dazzling fireworks, family entertainment and autumn festivities. But with tickets already selling fast, residents are being urged to book before it’s too late.

The popular annual event takes place on Saturday 7 November 2026, with families invited to enjoy an evening of live music, fairground rides, and a selection of food and drink before the skies above Walsall Arboretum burst into colour for the grand fireworks display at 7.30pm.

Organised by Walsall Council and sponsored by Hydesville Tower School, the spectacular is expected to attract plenty of local families looking to celebrate Bonfire Night together.

However, anyone hoping to attend will need to plan ahead. Tickets are only available in advance, with no tickets being sold at the gates on the night.

Keeping Walsall safe during firework season

As excitement builds for the big event, Walsall Council is also reminding residents to celebrate responsibly throughout the autumn festivities.

With Halloween, Bonfire Night and Diwali bringing an increase in firework activity, the council is joining forces with West Midlands Police to help prevent dangerous behaviour and anti-social incidents across the borough.

Additional police patrols will be targeting known problem areas and town centres, while Trading Standards officers are encouraging people to purchase fireworks from reputable retailers and follow all safety instructions carefully.

Residents are also being asked to spare a thought for neighbours, young children and pets who may find loud fireworks particularly distressing.

Councillor Ian Benton, Walsall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement, said:

“Walsall Council would like to thank Hydesville Tower School for its support as a sponsor of this year’s Fireworks Spectacular.

Fireworks can be an exciting part of autumn celebrations, but children’s safety must always come first. We encourage families to choose organised displays wherever possible, follow safety guidance and supervise children closely so everyone can enjoy the occasion.”

Raj Samra, Headteacher at Hydesville Tower School in Walsall, echoed the importance of putting safety first:

“Fireworks can be an exciting part of autumn celebrations, particularly for children, but it is essential that their safety always comes first.

Fireworks and sparklers can cause serious injuries if they are not handled correctly, so we encourage families to choose organised displays wherever possible and to follow safety guidance. Children should never be left unsupervised around fireworks, and parents and carers should make sure they understand the risks. By making safe choices, we can help children enjoy the celebrations and create happy memories without putting themselves or others at risk.”

How to book your tickets

For families looking forward to an evening of entertainment, fairground fun and fireworks, Walsall Arboretum’s organised display offers an opportunity to enjoy the celebrations together.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday 7 November 2026
• Location: Walsall Arboretum
• Fireworks display: 7.30pm
• Entertainment: Live music, fairground rides, food and drink
• Tickets: Advance booking only

Tickets, prices and further event details are available through TicketSource.

With tickets selling quickly and no admission tickets available on the night, anyone planning to attend is encouraged to secure their place as soon as possible.

With colder mornings and icy roads just around the corner, Walsall Council is gearing up for winter, making sure its gritting teams are ready to keep traffic moving safely when temperatures begin to fall.

Highways crews have been busy checking equipment, reviewing routes and preparing for the challenges of the colder months as part of an annual winter readiness exercise known as Operation Snowfall.

The preparations, carried out alongside gritting operatives from Tarmac, mean the borough’s winter road maintenance teams will be ready for action when the council’s official winter service begins on 1 November 2026, continuing until 31 March 2027.

Thousands of tonnes of salt ready for icy conditions

To help tackle frost, snow and icy roads, Walsall Council has stocked up on approximately 2,800 tonnes of salt, enough to complete as many as 48 full gritting runs across the borough.

The council’s gritting programme covers around 41% of Walsall’s roads, with priority given to busy main roads, bus routes and important access routes to hospitals.

However, the decision to send gritters out isn’t simply based on how cold it feels outside. Highways teams monitor road surface temperatures, local weather forecasts and data from weather stations to determine when treatment is needed.

Much of the work takes place overnight or during the early hours, helping to ensure key roads are treated before commuters and school traffic take to the streets. Crews can also be deployed during the day if weather conditions take an unexpected turn.

Councillor Ian Benton, Walsall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Street Scene and Enforcement, praised the teams working behind the scenes to prepare for the winter months.

“When winter weather arrives, our teams are ready to get out and do the job. Gritting often takes place overnight and in the early hours, helping to get priority routes treated before the morning rush.

I’d like to thank our highways crews for the work they do in all weathers to help keep Walsall moving. We can’t control the weather, but we can be prepared for it, and I’d encourage residents to take extra care when travelling in cold or icy weather.”

What about smaller roads and residential streets?

While Walsall’s main routes are prioritised for gritting, not every road in the borough is included in the regular winter treatment programme.

Residents who want to check whether their street or usual journey is covered can view the council’s gritting routes online.

Grit bins are also being inspected and replenished across Walsall ahead of the cold weather.

These familiar roadside yellow bins are generally positioned in areas where icy conditions can be particularly hazardous, such as steep hills and tricky junctions.

Anyone who spots an empty or damaged grit bin can report it to Walsall Council and request a refill or repair.

A reminder to take care on winter roads

Although the council’s highways teams are preparing for whatever the British winter brings, motorists are being reminded that gritting cannot eliminate every risk posed by ice and snow.

Drivers should remain particularly cautious on residential roads, untreated surfaces and routes that may become slippery during sudden drops in temperature.

With the gritters checked, salt supplies stocked and crews familiar with their routes, Walsall’s winter preparations are well under way.

For further information about winter road maintenance, including gritting routes and services, visit the Walsall Council website.

Thousands of secondary school pupils across Walsall are set to learn about the risks of smoking, vaping and nicotine addiction through a powerful theatre production returning to classrooms this winter.

Following a successful run last year, Hooked, an interactive educational show created by Performance in Education, will visit up to 25 secondary schools across the borough during November and December.

Commissioned by Walsall Council’s Public Health team, the production aims to get young people talking openly about smoking, vaping and the pressures they may face from friends, social media and their wider surroundings.

Designed for pupils in Years 7 to 9, the performance combines drama with practical advice, helping teenagers understand the health risks associated with nicotine, recognise potentially dangerous situations and develop the confidence to resist peer pressure.

The production also encourages pupils to take what they have learnt home, opening up conversations with parents and other family members.

Thousands of Walsall pupils benefited last year

The return of Hooked follows an overwhelmingly positive response from local schools during its previous tour.

An impressive 3,393 pupils watched the production and participated in follow-up educational activities, with 99% saying they enjoyed the experience.

Feedback suggested that the show helped pupils develop a better understanding of the potential harms associated with smoking and vaping, particularly challenging the misconception that vaping is completely risk-free.

Almost a quarter of pupils (24%) said the experience had encouraged them to stop smoking or help a friend to quit.

Teachers were equally enthusiastic. Every teacher who completed the evaluation agreed that the performance was beneficial, appropriate for the age group and useful in supporting conversations about nicotine use and peer pressure. All said they would recommend it to other schools.

How common is vaping among young people in Walsall?

Research gathered as part of the theatre programme also provided an insight into smoking and vaping habits among local pupils.

While most young people surveyed had never tried either, the findings suggested vaping was considerably more common than traditional cigarette smoking.

Some of the key findings included:

• 85.9% of pupils said they had never vaped, meaning approximately one in seven had tried it at least once.
• 2.4% reported vaping daily, with regular use becoming more common among older pupils.
• Around 30% said a parent or carer vaped.
• The most common age for first experimenting with vaping was between 11 and 13.
• Friends and family members were identified as common sources of vapes, rather than young people purchasing them directly.

Encouragingly, the findings also revealed that many pupils who experimented with vaping had not gone on to become regular users, while some had already stopped.

However, the research highlighted the influence that friendships, family habits and social environments can have on young people’s decisions.

With smoking prevalence in Walsall standing at 15.3%, the council believes preventative education remains an important part of improving health across the borough.

Helping young people make informed choices

Councillor Matt Eason, Walsall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing, welcomed the return of the production.

“Young people are faced with a growing number of influences and pressures, both online and in everyday life. It is important that they have access to accurate information that helps them make informed choices about their health and wellbeing. Hooked uses an engaging and relatable approach to raise awareness of the risks associated with smoking and vaping, while encouraging young people to think critically about nicotine addiction and peer pressure. We are pleased to support its return to schools across Walsall following such positive feedback from pupils and teachers last year.”

The council hopes that by reaching children early in their secondary school years, the programme can help prevent experimentation from developing into regular nicotine use.

Although regulated vaping products can be an effective tool for adults trying to stop smoking, health professionals emphasise that they are not intended for children, teenagers or people who have never smoked.

The advice for young people remains clear: if you don’t smoke, don’t vape.

New tobacco laws aim to protect future generations

The school’s theatre tour also comes as the UK prepares for major changes to tobacco legislation.

From 1 January 2027, new smokefree generation measures are set to make it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.

The legislation is intended to prevent future generations from taking up smoking, while additional measures within the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 seek to make vaping products less appealing to children and teenagers.

Initiatives such as Hooked form part of wider efforts to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions and support healthier choices before nicotine use becomes a regular habit.

Where Walsall residents can get help to quit

Alongside educating young people, free support is available across Walsall for adults and families who want to give up smoking or vaping.

Be Well Walsall offers face-to-face, telephone and online appointments, alongside nicotine replacement therapy and regulated vaping products where appropriate. Support for quitting vaping is also available.

Visit Be Well Walsall or call 01922 444044.

Quit with Bella provides online advice, support from trained advisers and stop smoking products delivered by post.

Visit Quit with Bella, call 0800 772 3872 or email walsall.stopsmoking@nhs.net.

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust also provides specialist help through its Stop Smoking in Pregnancy Service for expectant mothers and their partners. The team can be contacted on 01922 270477.

Hospital patients can access the Trust’s Tobacco Dependency Service by emailing wht.tdt@nhs.net, while specialist support for mental health inpatients is provided through Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

As Hooked prepares to take to the stage once again, the message for Walsall’s young people is about more than simply saying no to smoking or vaping. It’s about understanding the risks, recognising outside influences and having the confidence to make choices that protect their health, both now and in the future.