Tag Archives: Travel

News

Consultation begins on Sutton Park car parking charges

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Visitors to Sutton Park who are now facing car parking charges are being asked to take part in Birmingham City Council’s formal public consultation on its controversial and unpopular plans.

The popular beauty spot is one of three of the city’s ‘destination’ parks, which also include  Lickey Hills Country Park, and Sheldon Country Park.

Consultations for the proposed parking charge schemes at all three have started and will run until August 29 2025.

Residents can make theire views known here

Why Introduce charges?

This is following feedback from the informal consultations which took place at the end of last year, resulting in amended proposals.

The council claims that introducing charges at these parks will bring Birmingham in line with similar places around the UK to offset the cost of maintaining these destination sites.

The council says that as part of the budget for 2025/26 the principle of charging was agreed to achieve necessary savings and help sustain, protect and maintain our 660 parks and green spaces.

Cllr Majid Mahmood, cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “We have some wonderful parks and green spaces across the city, but we need to be able to maintain them for the benefit of everyone. Introducing parking charges at these three major sites will help protect and maintain all our green spaces.

“Whether you use these parks for walking, cycling, exercising or meeting up with people, we want to hear your views on rate of charging and when we you should be charged.

“We are also aware of potential impact of displacement parking and will therefore be looking at traffic restrictions in existing hotspot areas and any need for further restrictions following residents’ feedback.”

What are the Sutton Park charges?

  • First 30 minutes: Free
  • 30 mins – 1 hour: £1
  • 1–2 hours: £2
  • 2–3 hours: £3
  • 3–4 hours: £4
  • 4–9 hours: £5
  • Buses/coaches: £28 (up to 9 hours)

Charges will apply daily from 9am to 6pm, year-round.
An annual season ticket will be available for £52 (public), £39 (businesses), and free for volunteers.
Exemptions: The Browns and Miller & Carter restaurant car parks, Paddock car park near Town Gate, and Midland Lodge (currently for sale) will remain free.

Lickey Hills Country Park & Sheldon Country Park

  • Hourly rate: £1 (up to 4 hours)
  • All-day parking: £5
  • Coach parking (Beacon Hill only): £28
  • Season ticket: £52 per year
  • Blue Badge holders: Free

Charges will apply 365 days a year, 9am–6pm.

See comment piece to follow

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News

Council steps in to save popular summer food festival

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lichfield-food-festival.jpg

An under-threat but popular summer food and drink festival held just down the road from Sutton Coldfield has been saved by the local council.

Lichfield District Council has stepped in to save the city’s Summer Food Festival – to be held from August 23 to 25.

The authority acted after the event had been thrown into jeopardy when the council barred the previous organisers from running it this year.

Any trader that had already booked and paid for a pitch at the Lichfield Summer Food Festival via the previous event organiser, will be offered a free pitch. The Council will also be reaching out to retailers in the City Centre to talk to them about how they can be part of the Food Festival.

With only a few weeks for the council to organise the Food Festival, traders are urged to work with the local authority. Whilst the council say it won’t be exactly the same as previous Food Festivals, it is committed to organising a vibrant and enjoyable event.

Cllr Doug Pullen, Leader of the Council, said: “The Lichfield Summer Food Festival is really important to our residents, businesses and visitors. It brings thousands of people into the city and provides an opportunity to showcase Lichfield as a visitor destination.

“So I’m really pleased that the Council is able to step in to ensure that this year’s Summer Food Festival goes ahead.

“We want to do all we can to support those traders who we know have already made significant financial outlays in preparation for the Lichfield Summer Food Festival. So any trader that has booked and paid for a pitch, and can share evidence of doing so, will be offered a free pitch.”

Traders should get in touch at events@lichfielddc.gov.uk. Further details on the Food Festival will be released in the coming weeks.

News

Join the Fun at Sutton Coldfield’s food and music festival

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Rugby club to host ‘Great Stuff’ food and music event on Bank holiday weekend

Event Highlights

Join the DDC Summer Send Off on Saturday, August 30, hosted by Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club for a day packed with entertainment. Experience a circus workshop, silent disco, and live performances, plus enjoy inflatables, bubble machines, and an exciting world record attempt.

Food and drink

Treat your taste buds with delicious street food from top Midlands vendors including Banquet 1415, Disco Fries, Duck & Roll, Only Jerkin’, Street Chef, Street Souvlaki, Stripclub, Tacos El Pap, Urban Cheesecake, and Victoria Crêperie. Refresh with craft beers, cocktails, and slushies from the festival bars.

Live music line-up

The Good Stuff Main Stage will showcase top local talent featuring Hockley Social Club (HSC), Lucas D & The Ghetto Groove, Metz Jnr Band, DJ Mr ‘M’ Milford, Ryan Evans, and Shanty Town.

World record attempt

Make history with the Metz Jnr Band as they attempt to break the record for “Most People Simultaneously Playing Shakers.” Every participant receives a free shaker to keep and a certificate to commemorate the event. Metz Jnr says: “Music unites people, and we can’t wait to rock Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club!”

Celebrating five years

Jack Brabant, DDC co-founder, shared: “Sutton Coldfield always gives us a warm welcome. We’re excited to bring a fresh, fun experience to the town and the West Midlands.”

DDC Summer Tour continues

The DDC Summer Tour runs from May to September with 40+ street food events across Birmingham, Solihull, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and Staffordshire. Now in its eighth year, the tour attracts 70,000+ visitors annually—don’t miss out!

Join the fun at Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club for an unforgettable Bank Holiday weekend! 🎉

News

Reaction to Sutton Park’s new parking Fees

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Council revises original charging plan

Charges for parking at Sutton Park are set to go ahead, but Birmingham City Council has announced revised charges after a public outcry.

Parking fees at three of the city’s most desirable parks: Sutton Park, Lickey Hills Country Park, and Sheldon Country Park. This decision arises from the council’s persistent financial difficulties, as they seek new revenue streams following significant budget cuts and a second consecutive rise in council tax.

A recent public consultation revealed that a majority of residents are against the proposed parking charges. Despite the considerable opposition, the Labour-run council maintains that these fees are crucial for covering the costs associated with park maintenance. They recognize that parking charges can be “controversial and unpopular,” yet stress that the income generated will not entirely cover maintenance expenses, necessitating ongoing taxpayer support.

In response to public feedback, the council has made minor adjustments to the proposed fees:

Sutton Park & Lickey Hills Country Park:

  • £1 per hour (up to 4 hours)
  • £5 for all-day parking
  • £52 for an annual permit
  • Charges apply 9 am–6 pm, 365 days a year, with a 30-minute free grace period.

Sheldon Country Park:

  • £0.75 per hour (up to 3 hours)
  • £3.50 for all-day parking
  • £52 for an annual permit
  • Same operating hours and grace period as above.

The council argues that implementing parking fees at major parks is “common practice” throughout the UK and aligns with “national best practice.”

They believe that the revised fees could help alleviate the impact on local businesses while attracting more visitors. The council aims to balance the need for revenue with the desire to maintain accessibility to these premium green spaces.

However, critics express concern that these charges may discourage individuals, particularly lower-income families, from enjoying the parks. There is apprehension that local businesses, which depend on park visitors, could face adverse effects due to diminished foot traffic.

What do you think about Sutton Park charges? Do you believe it’s truly justified?

News

Sun shines on Sutton Coldfield food extravaganza

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The Sutton Coldfield Food Festival – the town’s biggest event of the year – was a sizzling success. The sun shone as more than 100 food and drink traders filled The Parade in the town centre from Friday, 11 to Sunday, 13 April.

A Culinary Delight

Following the record-breaking success of last year’s festival, organisers announced that the 2025 event featured even more culinary delights and family fun. From sizzling street food to indulgent desserts, local specialties, and refreshing drinks, there was something to please every palate.

A Collaborative Effort

The three-day event is a collaboration between Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID and LSD Promotions, aiming to celebrate local flavors and community spirit.

Free Entertainment for All

The festival also offered a range of free entertainment, including the Comedy Waiters Duo and Stilt-Walking Chefs, who appeared on Saturday and Sunday throughout the day. Additional activities included free face painting, glitter tattoos for children, and live music performances.

Community Excitement

Speaking before the event, Michelle Baker, BID manager, expressed her excitement: “We are excited to bring the Food Festival back to Sutton Coldfield for a second year. This event has truly become the town’s biggest free event, and we’re thrilled to showcase the best local and regional food once again. From delicious street food to fantastic family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great opportunity to bring people together, celebrate our town, and support local businesses with an influx of visitors!”

News

Unlock your creativity in Sutton Coldfield art classes

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

 Join Our 14-Week Mixed-Ability Art Classes! 

Are you ready to embark on an artistic adventure with The Seasons Art Class Sutton Coldfield? Our fun and friendly adult art classes are the perfect space to ignite your creativity, refine your skills, and connect with a vibrant community of art enthusiasts!

Why You’ll Love It:

  • 🖼️ Get hands-on! Discover the joy of drawing and dive into painting with oil pastels, watercolours, and acrylics. Whether you’re a total beginner or a budding artist, there’s something here for everyone.
  • ✨ Learn from the best! Enjoy expert art tuition designed to help you grow and shine creatively.
  • 🫂 Make connections! Meet like-minded people who share your passion for art in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.

Perks That Make It Extra Special:

  • ☕ Feel at home: Free refreshments in a cosy, inspiring space.
  • 🎨 Discounted starter kits available: Get your essentials at a great price, and all other materials and tools for class are supplied.
  • 🌟 End with a flourish: Showcase your creations at a celebratory exhibition during the final week.
  • 🚗 Convenient and accessible: Free parking, including disabled spaces, and sloped access for ease.

Now More Inclusive Than Ever! We’re thrilled to introduce evening classes for the first time, specially designed to accommodate daytime workers. Everyone deserves a chance to explore their artistic potential, no matter their schedule.

Key Details:

  • 🗓️ Your creative journey begins: Week starting 28th April.
  • 🕒 Three classes available: Monday evenings, Thursday mornings, or afternoons.
  • 📍 Location: Sutton Coldfield Cricket and Hockey Club, Rectory Park, Rectory Road, Sutton Coldfield B75 7RS.

Act Now – Places Are Limited! Bring along a friend and enjoy generous booking discounts—because creativity is even better when shared.

📞 Reserve your spot or find out more by calling 0330 122 6145.

Let’s make this the start of something truly inspiring. Your masterpiece awaits! 🎉

News

Opening date for new Sutton Coldfield restaurant

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Med-inspired Willow to open this month in Mere Green

Willow, the latest addition to Sutton Coldfield’s restaurant scene officially opens its doors on Thursday 20th February. The all-day Mediterranean inspired dining concept will be the third Willow site following locations in both Trentham Gardens and Telford.

Willow offers an all-day menu featuring flavours of the Mediterranean coast, served in a stylish, laidback setting and offers an eclectic all-day menu with fresh, high-quality ingredients taking centre stage.

Breakfast and brunch dishes range from the classic Willow Breakfast showcasing ‘full English’ favourites to Turkish Eggs served with smoked Greek yoghurt, chorizo, brown butter,sumac and toasted sourdough. Lighter items including the high protein granola and yoghurt bowl can be found on the Piccolo menu.

The main menu includes a selection of typical Mediterranean dishes, such as king prawn paella, roasted lamb shoulder with a feta dressing and feta & spinach orzo.

Guests can share the Mezze Grill, which includes the likes of lemon & oregano chicken with garlic & saffron cream sauce, lamb kofta, crispy potato latkes and beetroot tzatziki labneh.

In line with the Mediterranean-inspired menu, desserts including warm Greek orange cake with Greek yoghurt icing, cardamom custard and basil poached oranges.

The fully stocked bar provides a wide variety of wines, beers and spirts, as well as a range of expertly crafted cocktails and mixed drinks.

Guests can enjoy a selection of Sangrias, an Aperol Selezione, as well as the Taste of the Med menu featuring the Bella Ragazza Martini incorporating; Malfy lemon gin, passionfruit liqueur, guava purée,
pineapple juice and viola. For those looking for a boozy brunch the offering also includes Bloody Mary’s, Mimosa’s and the Blueberry & Pineapple Colada.

During the day the restaurant is filled with natural light transforming into a cosy softly lit space in the evening. The new Willow site also features a stunning outdoor terrace perfect for al fresco dining and enjoying pre-dinner
cocktails.

Willow says it seeks to infuse every visit with a touch of holiday charm. The new restaurant welcomes guests of all ages as well as being dog friendly with a dedicated menu for four-legged friends. Further enhancing the experience, the restaurant will host regular live music nights, featuring talented local artists, providing a lively backdrop for guests.

General Manager at Willow Mere, comments: “We’re thrilled to bring Willow to Mere Green! Our unique concept features an all-day menu complemented by regular entertainment, creating the perfect dining destination for every occasion.”

News

Med-style restaurant to open in Sutton Coldfield

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Willow at Mere Green to open next month

A new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant will open its doors in Sutton Coldfield next month. Parogon Group has unveiled what it describes as exciting plans for its next venue, Willow, in Mere Green,

Willow, the all-day dining destination, is bringing its signature charm to this February, with the opening date to be announced very soon. The launch marks a new chapter for the brand’s expansion plans following the successful launch of the second Willow site in Telford, last year.

Willow is part of Parogon Group’s successful portfolio of restaurants and
establishments. Founded in 2007, the group has multiple venues across
Staffordshire, Cheshire and Shropshire, including The Swan with Two Necks, TheOrange Tree Bar and Grill and Blockhouse Barbecue Grill. The upcoming launch of Willow will be its third location, introducing the popular dining experience to a new audience.

Serving an eclectic menu of Mediterranean-infused flavours in colourful holiday- inspired surroundings, Willow will offer all-day service and provide the ideal setting for families, friends and couples to dine and relax in a uniquely curated setting.

From signature salads to chargrilled kabab skewers, dishes will focus on innovative plates inspired by Mediterranean flavours.

Alongside its all-day main menu, guests can indulge in brunch favourites and a range of lighter lunch options. In addition, Willow also offers a traditional Sunday lunch with all the trimmings.

The venue will benefit from an outdoor terrace, ideal for al fresco dining and enjoying Willow’s signature handcrafted cocktails. It will host regular live music nights, with talented local artists, providing guests with an entertaining soundtrack to enhance their visit.

Richard Colclough, Managing Director at Parogon Group, comments: “We’re very excited to be launching our next Willow site at Mere Green. The Willow concept has garnered incredible popularity at its existing locations in Telford and Trentham, and we are looking forward to bringing this success to a new audience. Guests have embraced Willow for its year-round holiday atmosphere and signature ‘taste of the Med’ menu.”

Willow, Mere Green, also marks Parogon Group’s continued expansion.

Richard continues: “Opening our first site in the Birmingham area is a huge milestone for the group. After extensive research we’ve determined that Mere Green is the perfect location for our next venture. We look forward to celebrating the upcoming opening and the exciting year ahead!”

In the meantme, Willow invites guests to sign up for updates on the Willow, Mere Green, website for the opportunity to attend the
restaurant’s soft openings, receiving 50% off food during their visit.

Travel

A Christmas Turkey surprise

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Country has so much offer

Travel by Bill McCarthy

Think of Christmas and you probably think of the actual festive bird, and not associate it with Turkey, the country.
Turkey, Now known as Turkiye, it is a vast nation that spans two continents. 
It offers plenty for tourists, but the legend of Santa Claus may be something of a surprise. Experts in the country say they have uncovered the tomb of St Nicholas, who is believed to be the inspiration for Santa. 

A Christian bishop of Greek origin who was known for giving to the poor, he lived between the years 270 and 343 and the legends are believed to have inspired the Christmas tales we tell today that Santa Claus will bring presents if you’ve been good. St Nicholas’ tomb was found in St Nicholas Church in Demre, in the Antalya district of southern Turkey.

It’s a country of diverse and beautiful regions and further west is the popular tourist area of Marmaris on the Turkish riviera.
It hosts miles of beaches with a range of watersports, including jet skiing and windsurfing with plenty of bars and cafes nearby. 
We booked a holiday package with easyJet and flew from Birmingham to stay  in the large, but good quality Prime Beach Hotel.

It is a couple of miles outside the old town of Marmaris, with the actual beach on its doorstep. Busy, but not so busy as to be uncomfortable.
The area hosts many hotels, shops, restaurants and tourist attractions as well as all sorts of excursions and historical visits.
But it’s much more than sun, sea and sand. For those who want to split their time between sunbathing and absorbing the region’s culture and history, there are fewer finer places. 

Like many countries, its tourism has been badly hit by the coronavirus pandemic, and then Turkey suffered the devastating blow of the giant earthquakes in the east of the country, but it is a country with so much to offer and an influx of tourists will have a major beneficial effect on its economy after such disasters. 

It’s a four-hour flight from Birmingham. For those worried about security issues, don’t be, as airport measures are strict with visitors having to go through an initial security check before even getting into the airport proper. Then they go through the usual check-in process. 

Before becoming modern-day Turkey, a state founded by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1923, the region was colonised and conquered by many races, from the early Hittites, through to the Greeks, the Romans, Seljuks, Byzantines and the Ottoman Empire. 
Marmaris is known for its striking contrast between modern resort life and ancient history.

Marmaris Castle, which dates back to the 16th century, overlooks the harbour and provides panoramic views of the town and the sea. Now a museum, it offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s past by showcasing historic artefacts from the ancient civilisations that once inhabited the area.
In addition to the historical sites, the surrounding pine-clad mountains create a dramatic backdrop that invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy nature walks, or take boat tours along the coastline and visit the islands, again pine clad. 

These stop off for a swim around the islands before a visit to the bustling market town of Turunc to catch up with your holiday presents.
Back at Marmaris, the area offers beaches, with their golden sands and turquoise waters and are ideal for swimming or relaxing.

Activities of fly and flop the choice is yours with all inclusive taking the financial strain.

Information:

easyJet is expanding its Birmingham operations, visit

https://www.easyjet.com/en/holidays/holidays-from-birmingham

News

Free bus travel offer this Christmas

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West Midlands mayor unveils public transport boost

Free weekday evening travel is being offered across the West Midlands, on all bus services, in the run up to Christmas this year, in a unique move never seen before on this scale in the UK. 

Between Monday, December 9 and Friday, December 13, all of the region’s buses will be free to use from 7pm onwards, with passengers able to simply hop onboard and travel anywhere across the West Midlands bus network.

The offer, from West Midlands mayor Richard Parker, delivered in partnership with all bus operators across the region, has been designed to encourage people to leave the car at home and avoid the stress and expense of driving and parking during the busy holiday period.

Residents and visitors heading out for some late-night Christmas shopping, a pantomime or to a festive party will not need a ticket or pass during the free travel period, making it even easier and cheaper to enjoy an evening out.

The free bus travel offer highlights the importance of bus services, while supporting the region’s shops, restaurants, pubs, theatres and concert venues. 

It is part of a wider programme to attract first time and long absent users on to the bus network to help tackle congestion on the region’s roads, while supporting the bus industry’s recovery from a fall in passenger numbers and increased fuel and running costs post-pandemic.

Mr Parker said: “From day one, I said that making the bus network better for the people of the West Midlands was one of my top priorities and this offer shows we, in partnership with our bus operators, are taking this challenge seriously by being the only region in the country taking these exciting steps to make a difference.

“So many of us will be heading out for parties, meals, stage shows and late-night shopping trips this Christmas.

“But it can be an expensive time of year, and I hope this free travel offer can help people save a few pounds, make their money go further and see the benefit of travelling by bus while visiting their local high streets and enjoying what our region has to offer this festive season.”

Staff from TfWM and National Express West Midlands will be on hand at key city centre locations to help customers and make sure the scheme runs smoothly during the week.

The free weekday bus travel scheme is expected to drive a 30 per cent increase in bus passenger journeys. The success of the scheme will be monitored to explore the potential for similar initiatives in the future.  

The initiative is part of the £20 million Passenger Incentive Programme which is funded from the West Midlands Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). It aims to encourage people to try bus travel for the first time or return after a period of absence, to support a passenger-led recovery of the local bus network.  

The Passenger Incentive Programme has already distributed over 200,000 weeks of travel credit, generating nearly 2 million bus journeys.    

For more information visit the website.