Councillor Elaine Williams, Leader of Walsall Council, has launched a new programme of ward visits that will see her meet residents, community groups, businesses and local organisations across the borough.
The ‘Walking the Wards’ initiative has been created to give Councillor Williams the opportunity to spend time in communities across Walsall, listening directly to residents and gaining a better understanding of the issues, priorities and opportunities that are important to local people.
During each visit, the Leader will be joined by ward councillors and will meet with residents, community representatives, local organisations and businesses. The visits will also provide an opportunity to see the work being carried out by communities across the borough.
Councillor Williams said:
“As Leader of Walsall Council, it is important to me that I spend time in our communities, speaking with residents and listening to the people who know their areas best.
I want to hear directly from residents about what matters to them, what they value about where they live, and where they feel we can do more. These visits are also an opportunity to see the fantastic work taking place across Walsall and to meet the people who make our borough what it is.
I want residents to know that their voices matter and that we are a council that listens. By having these conversations face-to-face, I can better understand people’s experiences and make sure those voices are heard.
The ‘Walking the Wards’ programme began on Friday 14 August 2026 with a visit to Willenhall, where Councillor Williams spent time at Willenhall Market, speaking with local traders and hearing about their experiences.”
Councillor Elaine Williams
Leader of Walsall Council
The first visit took place in Willenhall, where Councillor Williams met market traders and members of the local community to hear about their experiences and discuss the issues affecting the area.
During the visit, she also visited Willenhall Chart Community Hub, meeting Treasurer and Trustee Wayne Palmer and finding out more about the organisation’s work supporting local residents.
Councillor Williams also visited Stonehouse Avenue following a fire in the area the previous day, where she spoke with residents and saw the impact of the incident first-hand.
The Leader will continue visiting wards across Walsall over the coming months, providing further opportunities to meet local people, understand community priorities and celebrate the work of residents, organisations and groups that contribute to life across the borough.
The programme reflects Walsall Council’s continued commitment to listening to residents and ensuring local voices help shape decisions and priorities for the future.
Further updates from the ‘Walking the Wards’ programme will be shared through Walsall Council’s communication channels as visits continue.