Author: Ken Hawkins

Councillor at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council. Blogging about issues in Blythe Ward (Monkspath, Cheswick Green, Dickens Heath and Tidbury Green) and Solihull.

Monkspath school takes part in the Zero Carbon Schools Programme

11 July 2023

Over the past year, students at Monkspath Junior and Infant School have demonstrated their sustainability credentials by taking part in the Zero Carbon Schools Programme, organised by Green Schools Project. The programme helps pupils learn about the causes of climate change, the effect it’s having on the natural world and what action can be taken … More Monkspath school takes part in the Zero Carbon Schools Programme

Mobile Speed Camera – Community Concern Site Review 2023

3 July 2023

A report going to the STRONGER COMMUNITIES AND NEIGHBOURHOOD SERVICES SCRUTINY BOARD this week (Thursday 6th) reviews the locations of the Mobile Speed Camera (MSE) used by West Midland Police and gives recommendations for future use. The agenda for the meeting can be accessed here: https://eservices.solihull.gov.uk/mgInternet/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=531&MId=9679 I have however attached the three relevant papers below: … More Mobile Speed Camera – Community Concern Site Review 2023

Council seeks views on Public Realm Strategy to transform Solihull town centre

12 June 2023

Solihull Council is seeking views on its emerging Town Centre Public Realm Strategy and possible options for a phase one concept scheme focused along the High Street. A six-week public consultation launches today, which aims to help shape the future look, feel and layout of Solihull town centre. Residents, businesses and visitors are being asked … More Council seeks views on Public Realm Strategy to transform Solihull town centre

Local Plan still paused due to delay in NPPF

12 June 2023

The examination of Solihull’s Local Plan review remains paused pending the publication of the updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The Council understands from Government that the update of the NPPF has been delayed due to the extent of consultation comments received, but it remains hopeful that it will be published over the summer. Further information … More Local Plan still paused due to delay in NPPF

Solihull Council consults on new traffic enforcement powers.

7 June 2023

The Council is considering taking up new powers to enforce moving traffic rules on four junctions across the borough. This follows the government announcing last year that local authorities in England could apply to get new powers to enforce moving traffic offences under Part 6 of the Traffic Management Act 2004. The moving traffic rules … More Solihull Council consults on new traffic enforcement powers.

RECYCLING – A GAME CHANGER

7 June 2023

Yesterday I joined fellow councillors/shareholders from the eight local authorities that have invested in the new Materials Recycling Centre (MRF) – https://www.sherbournerecycling.co.uk The MRF was born out of discussions between forward thinking local authorities who wished to change and challenge the system whereby recyclers (those who accepted received material) held the whip hand. It was … More RECYCLING – A GAME CHANGER

New route from Monkspath to Blythe Valley Park

4 June 2023

Following an extensive consultation last summer about the creation of new active travel routes for pedestrians and cyclists, work to widen an existing footpath to create a new route from Monkspath to Blythe Valley Park will start on Monday 5 June. The work follows the publication of a report in October and continued engagement with … More New route from Monkspath to Blythe Valley Park

Council team scoops top international award for carbon reduction project

28 May 2023

Staff from Solihull Council’s Highway Infrastructure team and contractors Balfour Beatty Living Places (BBLP) are celebrating after scooping an international award for carbon reduction. Last year they picked up a prestigious national Green Apple Champion award for carbon reduction. Following their success, they then went forward to the international round and have been awarded the … More Council team scoops top international award for carbon reduction project