Mark Hill

Election Results

2011-05-09T07:49:00.001-07:00

Monday 9th May

Labour won in Brandwood by 1400 votes. I am no longer a councillor so I won't be updating this blog in the future. I have enjoyed being a councillor in Brandwood for 11 years but now have 2 kids so I decided not to seek re-election.

Vote Conservative

2011-05-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

Thursday 5th May

Today is polling day for the local elections, vote Conservative. You have until 10pm tonight.

postal votes opening

2011-04-27T01:27:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 27th April

I will be attending the opening of the postal votes. This will give us our first signs how we are doing in the local elections and if there is support in the referendum to change the voting system. Vote Conservative, Lesley Sutton, on 5th May and No in the referendum ie keep our current voting system rather than AV.

Missed rubbish collections

2011-01-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Monday 10th January

Can I start by wishing you a happy new year, hope that you have a good one. If you had black bags that haven't been collected over the christmas period they should have been collected by yesterday. I know of several instances where this hasn't happened. If your black bags haven't let me know ASAP and I will organise for it to be removed.

Seasons Greetings

2010-12-15T07:44:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 15th December

I have been quiet on the blog over the last week as I have been stuck at home with flu. To make matters worth my partner and two children have been ill aswell, so blog enteries haven't been at the forefront of my mind.

I have started to catch up with emails 311 and casework. I am going to my surgery tonight 6-7 St Bedes Church Hall, Doversley Road.

This will be last entry before christmas, not that the works stops, so can I take this opportunity off wishing you a merry christmas and happy new year.

Full Council

2010-12-08T02:11:00.000-08:00

Tuesday 7th December

Most of the day is taken up with Full Council. The main agenda items were the future of post offices, the report of the Cabinet Member for Leisure Sport and Culture and all the mud throwing of question time. A more appropriate expression would be snow ball fighting as someone put on my facebook site.

Dropped Kerbs

2010-12-07T00:22:00.000-08:00

Monday 6th December

During the day I have been catching up with case work. I have had a number of emails about parking on grass verges. The Council has started putting in the double kerbs such as at Broad Lane. It is illegal to park on grass verges. It is the police's responsibility to enforce parking on grass verges and the Council's to try and solve the problem.

During the evening, I have had our Group meeting which looks at upcoming decisions. We looked at the budget, council housing and the reduction is staffing levels.

Planning Application Alcester Road South/ Wynfield Gardens

2010-12-01T02:29:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 1st December

There is a planning application proposed at 299A Alcester Road South Kings Heath, for construction of a 3 storey building (comprising a ground floor retail unit, with 5 residential units above), parking area and landscaping.

A number of residents have contacted myself, Cllr Neville Summerfield and Lesley Sutton, Conservative Candidate, expressing concern about a number of issues in connection with the proposals.

The proposed application will increase further problems with parking within the area. Currently there are already problems with parking on the junction of Alcester Road South and Wynfield Gardens.

There were Tree Preservation Order placed in the land adjoining 2 Wynfield Gardens, Kings Heath, which became effective as of the 11th September 2009. A letter was sent out (Reference Number: PM/CONS/RW/MB/TBO 1318) informing residents nearby of the Tree Preservation Order. What is happening to these trees ?

The design of the proposed building does not blend in with the design of the surrounding buildings as the planning application is for three stories, the rest of the residential buildings are two stories.

In the houses next to the proposed building they will have south facing windows, which would look straight into the gardens and houses, thus invading the privacy.

Ward Committee

2010-11-30T01:38:00.000-08:00

Monday 29th November

I had a busy day of meetings with the Fire Authority in the morning, a few work commitments in the afternoon and the Ward Committee in the evening. The main agenda items were the playbuilder funding for a new play area on Walkers Health, section 106money to be spent on park improvements at TASCAS/ Brandwood park and a gating scheme for Camford Grove/ Marsham Road.

Tree Planting

2010-11-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

Thursday 25th November

I have been notified by Birmingham Trees for Life that they are looking at tree planting within Brandwood Ward. The area that they are considering is just north off Bells Lane, alongside the Chinn Brook, where some for the Millennium were planted. I have asked about other areas as well as I know a number of people have contacted me about these over the years but so far have drawn a blank.

Not seeking re-election

2010-11-24T01:04:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 24th November

A number of people have contacted me over the last month to express disappointment that I won't be standing again in May. I have been a councillor in Brandwood Ward for 11 years all of which I have really enjoyed.

After much thought I have decided not to seek re-election in May 2011. Since my last election in 2007 I now have 2 young children and have found the time of council, work and family was hugely demanding also my partner works full time, so something had to give. I pledge my full support to my successor Lesley who I am sure will be an able successor if elected.

Public Protection Committee

2010-11-19T08:07:00.000-08:00

Friday 19th November

I have been at a Public Protection Committee which is a regulatory committee of the Council. There were a number of topics covered including loan sharks, the Licensing Act 2003 and litter zones. In July 2009 Broad Street became a designated define consent zone which puts restrictions on the literature that can be disbributed. There was discussion around if this helped reduce litter or that it was another tax on business.

Colmore J&I School expansion

2010-11-17T03:23:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 17th November

Last week the Cabinet of the Council approved plans to expand Colmore J&I School. The Education Department/ School have been quick off the mark as they have already submitted a planning application for additional classrooms. The aim is to have the school in a position where they will be able to accept additional pupils from September 2011.

Millpool Nursery Survives

2010-11-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

Tuesday 16th November

After a lot of consultation and also lobbying by local residents, your Conservative Team led by Lesley Sutton, our local government candidate, next May we have managed to secure the future of the nursery. The outcome is that it will continue as a community day nursery funded by the mainstream budget. We know the importance of this local service and made and won the case on behalf of all those involved. A wider range of support services will be available and occupancy will be expected to rise to 90%.

Mobile Phone mast updates

2010-11-12T03:29:00.000-08:00

Friday 12th November

The Broadmeadow application was turned down on the grounds of ‘visual amenity’.This in plain English means that it would be an eyesore and a blot on the landscape!(There is a right of appeal).

The Lions Club mast was approved because it was a replacement mast and also hidden behind a building. (Planners cannot refuse on grounds of health issues given that risks are not considered medically proven). We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who contacted us on the mast’s issues.

Bus Service Restored

2010-11-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

Thursday 11th November

Subject to final confirmation, your Conservative team, working with Birmingham City Council and Centro, have been able to secure an offer of a bus service for the Brandwood area.

The service offered may not be as flexible as the previous No.69, but councillors and Birmingham City Council are sadly not in a position to demand or dictate to bus operators what they can and cannot do. We therefore endeavour to persuade and influence the bus operators using whatever means we can to secure the best deal for the residents we are so very proud to represent.

The new service will be No.649. It will be a one hour shuttle operating 9.30 am to 3.30 pm, Monday - Saturday. It will be operated by Birmingham Community Transport. The length of the trial period and the exact details of the route have not emerged. The suggested start date will be 29th November 2010.

Fire Authority Meeting

2010-11-08T09:52:00.000-08:00

Monday 8th November

What terrible weather today, it has pretty much rained all day. Luckily it didn't over the weekend as I was away walking in the Peak District.

I have been at a Fire Authority Meeting for most of the day. We had a presentation from the senior management about the finances following the comprenhensive spending review. They seem in good order as there has been a recruitment freeze over the last year and the pay award to staff was less than we budgeted for.

Pedestrian Saftey by Colmore School

2010-11-03T06:26:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 3rd November

I have recently given my support in a consultation to improve pedestrian safety by Colmore J&I School along Colmore Road. The proposals include installation of enhanced warning signs, introduction of a 20 mph zone, introduction of ‘school keep clear’ markings and associated ‘no stopping’ traffic regulation orders. Unfortunately

Full Council

2010-11-03T03:18:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 2nd November

Most of the day was taken up with Full Council. There were a number of interesting discussions around the economy, the finances of the council and the normal knock around of question time.

I think the most interesting debate was around the Scrutiny Review of Project Champion. Often Scrutiny Reviews are nodded through with a few speakers but this had a lot of interest. Project Champion was in the national news, as a number of CCTV cameras were put up to try and reduce terrorism without any real consultation and they were in largely ethnic areas. This caused outcry in the local communities. The police have since apologised for the problems this caused for community relations.

Group Meeting

2010-11-02T01:03:00.000-07:00

Monday 1st November

I have had Group meeting where we discussed some of the major policies that are coming up. This includes social care of children, police authority and school building programmes. I was amazed to discover that it costs social services an average of £25000 for each child that it looks after.

Nursery provision and school expansion are due to go to Cabinet on 8th November this effects Brandwood Ward with Millpool Gardens and Colmore School respectively.

Verge Protection measures

2010-10-27T06:02:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 27th October

Following requests from local residents, police and other partners a number of verge protetcion measures will be introduced in the form of double kerbs over the comings months. This is to prevent inappropriate parking. These will be on Allens Croft Road, Bells Lane, Broad Lane, Sherston Covert, Poston Grove and Brandwood Park Road.

Alcohol seizures from off-licences

2010-10-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 26th October

In a joint exercise with Customs and Excise 8 off-licences in the Brandwood
Ward were targeted and visited by Police Officers to inspect alcohol being
sold within these shops and whether duty had been paid on it. The
particular off-licenses were selected due to concerns about the prices of
their alcohol, but also irresponsible sales, to minors, for example.

The results of this exercise were that alcohol was seized from 7 of the
shops. Prosecutions are now pending, as well as licensing reviews. Pending the outcomes of these actions, there will be some wider promotion and publicity of these successes.

The results of this exercise and a similar one undertaken in Selly Oak in
the last 12 months (£35K of alcohol seized) are evidence of the feelings of
local officers that there are issues with the way in which a majority of
off-licences are being run.

Millpool Nursery

2010-10-25T00:58:00.000-07:00

Monday 25th October

Your Conservative Team are continuing to work with the education department to secure the continuing good work of Millpool Nursery. Not everyone can afford fees and the Nursery provides excellent service to all children including those from low income families.

Street Champions

2010-10-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 20th October

The council aims to recruit several thousand street champions. These are voluntary positions that aim to act as a community link between the area where they live and the council. On Druids Heath they are doing a number of events to try and encourage people to become involved. See below
October 29 - participation of various partners in Graffiti Clean-Up Day including audit training.
November 5 - bulb planting and community lunch at Manningford Hall.
February 2011 - Litter-pick, audit, walkabout and Graffiti Clean-Up Day
March 2011 - tree planting on identified/appropriate sites

More Meetings

2010-10-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 19th October

I have just got back, been in ward most of the day at the Druids Heath HLB meeting, Brandwood Management Board meeting and leaflet delivering, yes I did get soaked. At the HLB issues around parking at Baverstock School, bollard removal at Easterton Croft and housing priorities were discussed. At the Brandwood Management Board funding was agreed for directional signs to St Bedes, christmas event and a skip day to throw out old rubbish.

Special Collections

2010-10-18T07:47:00.000-07:00

Monday 18th October

The latest round of special collections, starts on Wednesday this week and continuing over the next week about 1500 houses will get a collection. Special collection are when large bulky items can be left outside your house for FREE and will be collected by council. If you area is effected you will be getting a leaflet, if you haven't had 1 already. This has been funded through community chest and the council.

Full Council

2010-10-13T01:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 12th October

It is that time of the month again of Full Council. There was the normal knock around with question time but there were more good discussions around the TB motion, the report on waste management and what the council is doing around climate change.

New Grit Bin Locations

2010-10-10T06:25:00.000-07:00

Sunday 10th October

Based upon representation from residents, I have requested the following locations for 5 grit bins in Brandwood Ward as below;

1. Baverstock Road
2. At the junction of Reeves Rd with Dawberry Road
3. At the junction of Appleby Close with Dawberry Field Road
4. At the junction of Cressy Close with Towpath Way
5. On the hill of Partons Road,

Your City Your Birmingham

2010-10-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

Saturday 9th October

In Selly Oak Constituency from 25th October - 5th November the Your City Your Birmingham flytipping crew will be here. If you are aware of any large scale flytipping sites where you live please let me know so that these can be included in the schedule of work for this crew.

Conservative Conference - NSPCC

2010-10-07T02:06:00.000-07:00

Thursday 7th October

I have been at the Conservative Party Conference. I have attended various fringe meetings and visited various exhibitiors standards. One of those was the NSPCC. They were asking people to advertise their child help line number through their networks. I agreed to do so, the telephone number is 0808 800 5000.

New Vision

2010-10-01T03:58:00.000-07:00

Monday 27th September

I attended the New Vision Group meeting around the Waterloo development area, which is essentially Sunderton Road and roads off this. There is representation from Brandwood End Cemetery, Brandwood Pool and the Friends of Jasmin Fields.

The Group is very much in its early development and will be looking at having an AGM which residents in the area will be told about. There was discussion about the bat evening, Christmas Sleigh and The Space (Community Building on Sunderton Road).

Re-routing of the 35 bus

2010-09-29T01:49:00.000-07:00

Sunday 26th September

A number of people have contacted me about the re-routing of the 35 bus. The 35 service will use Grove Road and Brandwood Road in both directions. Until the road works are completed which will be about 1 week. National Express have posted notices on all the bus stops, informing passengers of the route the buses are taking between the hours of 09:00 and 16:30 hours.

Labour Leader

2010-09-28T04:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday 25th September

I have been out delivering leaflets in Kings Heath and get back just in time to hear the result of the new Labour Leader. I am delighted with the result. I think the wrong Miliband has been choosen. I think red Ed will be a disaster for the Labour Party which is good news for the Conservatives. He is trying to be all things to all people. During the campaign he was speaking to the Trade Unions. Now he is elected as Leader he seems to be focusing on middle England by talking about the squeezed middle, what a hypocrite.

Selly Oak Constituency Meeting

2010-09-25T05:42:00.000-07:00

Thursday 23rd September

I attended the Selly Oak Constitency Meeting which discusses major issues with the area. 1 of the major items that was discussed was the change to Ward refuse teams to follow the Ward based cleaning teams. This will mean that the 1 crew will cover each ward, so it will hopefully lead to an improvement in services. Also, there is a review of the days of rubbish collection, so there could be some changes. Residents will be notified about this.

Goal posts Jasmin Fields

2010-09-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 22nd September

A number of people have contacted me about the proposed goal posts at Jasmin Fields.
The Friends of Jasmin Fields have organised with the council to have some goal posts
erect on the field. This is due to happen over the next few weeks.

Ward Committee

2010-09-21T03:35:00.001-07:00

Monday 21st September

As ever it has been a busy day for meetings. In the morning I attended the Fire Authority meeting. In the afternoon I was out delivering out latest newsletter on Lindsworth Road.

Then onto the Ward Advisory Board and Ward Committe. There were lots of interesting itmes raised the proposed expansion of Colmore School, highway improvements with Amey and community chest proposals. It was a shame that there were only 5 members of the public and 1 of those was the Labour Candidate for the next years local elections.

69 Bus Update

2010-09-14T02:51:00.001-07:00

Tuesday 14th September

Following the recent public meeting at St. Bedes on the 29th of July, a meeting between National Express, Centro and Councillors took place. It was a very positive meeting and the following was decided upon:-

Re-routing the No.35 was considered not to be a viable option. However, a
new off-peak shuttle service starting at 9.30am and finishing at 3.00am
(linking the area to Kings Heath centre) was considered to be a
possibility. Any firm proposal from National Express would almost
definitely be on a three month trial basis.

We would like to thank all those residents who have lobbied with their
Councillors on this issue and we are hopeful of a successful outcome.

Road Improvments

2010-09-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

Monday 13th September

A number of people have contacted me about getting the roads where they live resurfaced. Following the PFI Highways contract with Amey they are now responsible for this. They have a 20 year contact with the council to resurface all the roads and paths in Birmingham. Most will be done with the 1st 5 years of the contract. Today, I have contacted them about resurfacing Brandwood Road and Colmore Avenue.

Dog Mess Signs Taylor Road

2010-08-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 25th August

Several residents have contacted me about the problems with dog mess on Taylor Road. As a a result I have organised for some no dog fouling signs to be put up which will hopefully reduce the problem. This has been done in other areas within the ward which has proved successful.

Speed cameras Hanuch Lane

2010-08-24T02:24:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 24th August

The speed warning cameras have recently been moved to Haunch Lane, unfortunately a number of residents have felt that they are in the wrong position.

They have suggested a better position would be near to and approaching Chamberlain Road from Wheelers Lane and outside number 207 Haunch Lane coming from
Hollybank Road. I have suggested that they are moved to this position.

Ward Funding

2010-08-23T02:47:00.000-07:00

Monday 23rd August

I have recently been notified that we have an underspend within the ward for dropped kerbs and grass verge protection measures. Dropped kerbs are designed to help people cross the road easier and verge protection measures are for double kerbs or wooden stakes.

Casework

2010-08-18T00:59:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 18th August

August tends to be a quiet month for council meetings but not for case work. This is never ending. I can get upto 30 cases a week. Often residents come to councillors as they don't know who to contact or get fed up with being past from person to person. This is what has happened with someone from Meadfoot Avenue when they were trying to get some rubbish removed. I contacted the council have been promised this will get removed today.

Rubbish Bins request

2010-08-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

Monday 16th August

Following last weeks police tasking meeting I have had a number of requests for litter bins. A litter bin has been taken from Pakefield Road, on the bend by the cable box. I have asked for a replacement 1 be ordered. Also I have made a request for a new litter bin in Keynell Covert, off Monyhull Hall Road, due to the build up of litter there. I

Brandwood Tasking

2010-08-12T12:42:00.000-07:00

Thursday 12th August

There was a clash of the 2 Ward Tasking meetings tonight. I attended the St Bedes Church 1. There was a lot of discussion about how the meeting was being run. The 3 priorities that were identified were scrap metal dealers creating a lot of noise, drug dealing and drug usage on Brandwood Park Road, speeding on Broad Lane and Monyhull Hall Road.

Suggestions for Maypole Shopping Centre Funding

2010-08-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 11th July

Following the development of the Maypole shopping centre and surrounding areas there has been some section 106 money (developers putting money back into the local community) spent on improving the area.

There has been an underspend of £32,000 so there is £16,000 for Brandwood Ward and it can be spent on public open opens such as parks, site security and footpath improvements. Any ideas welcome.

Motorbikes nuisance

2010-08-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 10th August

I have had several complaints from local residents about the motorbikes on Dawberry Fields Park. I know that this has been raised at tasking meetings but I have contacted the police for an update.

Previously, I have contacted the council about making the access points smaller so that motorbikes cannot get into the park. Unfortunately the council won't make any alterations to access points as they are saying it would mean that wheelchair users and pushchairs won't be able to access it very easily !!

69 bus meeting

2010-07-29T13:13:00.000-07:00

Thursday 29th July

I have just come back from a public meeting about the scrapping of the 69 bus. There were about 100 people there who let Centro and National Express know their views. Whilst the meeting was heated Centro and National Express have agreed to look at the local routes as a matter of urgency to try and include the Dawberry Fields Road/ Doversley Road.

Baverstock and Kings Norton High School update

2010-07-27T00:34:00.001-07:00

Tuesday 27th July

I have meant to put a post up about this for a while but we have disbributed 1500 leaflets about this around the surrounding areas to Lindsworth School.

Following the discussion about school funding in the national press, a number of residents have contacted us over the last few weeks to find out what is happening about the proposed new school at Lindsworth with the merger of Baverstock and Kings Norton High.

We are delighted to tell you that the proposal will not go ahead on the Lindsworth Site. This follows pressure of the local residents working with your local Conservative Councillors Mark Hill and Neville Summerfield and Derek Johnson, Campaign Co-ordinator. We are pleased that the reasons put forward, such as the increase in traffic and pressure on local amenities, have been listened to and acted upon.

However, there are still plans merge to Baverstock and Kings Norton High but an alternative site needs to be found. We have previously suggested expanding
one of the current sites but have been told this wasn’t feasible. One of our suggestions was to look at the large green area in front of Baverstock where two tower blocks have been knocked down. We will be asking for this to be looked at again. Any suggestions of a local site ?

Colmore J&I School expansion response

2010-07-26T01:20:00.000-07:00

Monday 26th July

I have written to the Council on behalf of the residents about the proposed expansion of the Colmore J&I School. I have 2 young children so I am committed to the improvement of education of our children and have taken pride in the fact that Birmingham schools have gone from strength. Colmore is a popular local school with a high demand for places.

We have spoken with a number of residents about the Colmore J&I school proposals and they have a number of concerns.

How would the additional places impact upon the other children ? It would put pressure on the other facilities within the school ? How many additional classrooms would need to be built ?

The playgrounds are already just about accommodating the children who go to Colmore School. Where would all the children go with the expansion?

There will be a strong impact on the local residents within the area, especially for residents that have houses that surround the school. I know that the school have tried to work with partners to stop parents from driving their children to school and parking inconsiderately but it is still a problem. By expanding the school it would make this worse.

69 bus

2010-07-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 21st July

I have had a busy surgery tonight at St Bedes covering housing, anti-social behaviour and the 69 bus. At the end of July the 69 bus is not going to exist. This will particularly effect people around the Dawberry Fields Road and Bryndale Avenue area. We have tried to lobby Centro and National Express to no avail. We have helped organise a public meeting for 29th July 7pm at St Bedes Church Hall.

New Management Board

2010-07-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 20th July

I attended the 1st meeting of the newly formed Management Board for Allens Croft, Brandwood and Waterside. The aim of the group was for the partners within the area such as the police, council and community groups to work together to help improve the area and bring funding in. Now off to the Druids Heath Housing Liaison Board.

Police Tasking Meeting

2010-07-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

Thursday 15th July

I attended the police tasking meetings for Brandwood. This has changed over the last few months following the boundaries of the police changing to match the political boundaries. There is still a tasking meeting to cover Druids Heath but the rest of the ward is covered by this meeting. Also the focus has changed to look more at police issues. The main issues that were raised at this meeting were around anti social behaviour on Kings Road and quad biking.

Ward Committee

2010-07-16T03:20:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 14th July

We had the Ward Committee tonight which is looks at the main issues within the ward that are coming up and positive things that have been done. We had some really interesting presentation from the Allens Croft Project about the work that they do with older people and people that suffer from domestic violence. These are part funded with community chest funding from the Brandwood Ward. There is currently a slight underspend of community chest funding so if you have any suggestions please let me know.

Brandwood End Cemetery

2010-07-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday 11th July

I have been at the bi-monthly litter pick at Brandwood End Cemetery. This is organised by the Freinds of Brandwood End Cemetery which was set several years ago by a group of residents, with the council, to help improve its running. Their ultimate aim is to get funding to restore the chapels that have been burnt down.

Dawberry Fields Fun Day

2010-07-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

Friday 9th July

I will be attending the Dawberry Fields Fun day this Saturday 12-4pm. It has been organsied by the local community with various partners. There will be lots of things to do for children and there is a car boot sale. It is free, so why not come along. and it is supposed to be hot !

Potential expansion of Colmore School

2010-07-07T04:03:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 7th July

I have learnt that Birmingham City Council is proposing to expand and enlarge 16 primary schools over the next few years across Birmingham. This affects the residents of Brandwood Ward, particularly around the Kings Heath area as there are plans to expand Colmore Junior and Infant Schools.

The first round of consultation starts on 21 June 2010 and will run for one month until 21 July 2010, once there are more detailed plans a further consultation will run for 1 month from 9th September 2010. I have raised concern about the lack of the time for the consultation and what consultation is being done with the residents.

Whilst I support our local schools, I am concerned about the impact of the proposed expansion on the residents that live within the area. I would be interested to hear your comments, thoughts, concerns ?

Key points from the consultation document:

• The Council are introducing these changes due to the expected shortage of places at schools over the next few years.

• The schools will grow by between 30 and 60 pupils per year for 7 years so the change in pupil numbers will occur gradually. No child currently at the schools will have additional pupils admitted into their year group.

• The proposed increase in places means that some building work at the majority of the 16 schools will occur before the proposed expansion by September 2011 when the Council are proposing these changes.

• These are only proposals - it will not definitely go ahead. There is a statutory process the Council must follow to make these sorts of changes to schools. The final decision will be made on 25th October 2010.

• This was not proposed sooner as the Government only recognised the shortage of places at school last year when they released funding for local authorities to bid for to provide additional places. Birmingham was one of the successful bidders but the funding was not released until late last year.

New Baby

2010-06-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 16th June

I am pleased to announce the birth of my son Luca. He was born today at 0941. Mother and baby doing well. This means that I will be quiet on my blog over the next few weeks, enjoying time with him as babies grow up so soon. Lets hops his sister is as happy as we are.

Take-away given go ahead

2010-06-15T02:24:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 15th June

Depite objections from myself and local residents the planning committee have approved the take-away at Alcester Road South/ Meadfoot Avenue. I do not feel that this has been dealt with very well as the objections of residents have largely been ignored around parking and litter in the area.

It is difficult to appeal for residents as it costs several thousand pounds and the people making the appeal have to pay, in this case the residents. The council won't appeal unless any decision is against there planning guidelines and advise.

69 Bus Service

2010-06-14T01:43:00.000-07:00

Monday 14th June

It has been brought to my attention by local residents and confirmed by National Express that as from July 25th 2010 the 69 service will be withdrawn. In the Brandwood Ward the area of Grove Road, Dawberry Fields Road and Doversley Road a replacement Centro service 669 will run every hour.

The 27 service will now be extended from Kings Heath to cover the part of the 69 to the Maypole, increasing the frequency to 20 minutes from 30 minutes. The 27 will no longer terminate at Alcester Lanes End.

I contacted Diamond about doing a service around Dawberry Fields and Doversley Road area but they have said it wasn't economically viable. I have written to Centro asking them to look at increasing the 669 to every 30 minutes.

rubbish Brandwood Park Road

2010-06-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 8th June

I have had a call from a resident that lives on Brandwood Park Road who is unhappy with the rubbish that has been left on the road. We have a really good local resource, called the street cleansing team who can go and sort these kinds of issues out. I have contacted them and asked them to sort this out.

Brandwood End Cemetery Access

2010-06-02T05:41:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 2nd June

I have been contacted by some residents about general access to Brandwood End Cemetery.

I have had the following response from the council. The primary purpose of the cemetery is to provide a peaceful and restful place in which people can bury their loved ones and visit thereafter. We do however appreciate that cemeteries have a wider appeal and are considered by many as open spaces and are therefore supportive of the work of the Friends of Brandwood End Cemetery are undertaking in this regard.

Under the Rules and Regulations in respect of the Municipal Cemeteries and Crematoria the Cemetery is open to visitors at 0.8.30 on weekdays and staff usually ensure that the gates are open for this time.

Cable boxes

2010-06-01T02:03:00.000-07:00

Monday 1st June

I have been contacted by a resident about workmen that have been leaving cable box doors open after working on them. One example has been the green box that is situated on the corner of Wynds Covert and Brockworth Road. Whilst the Council are not responsible for the work of these people we are so for the litter that is created. I have contacted the cable companies to request that their workmen operate to standards that we would all want them to.

Funding for Brandwood Ward

2010-05-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Friday 28th May

Birmingham has developed neighbourhood management over the last few years. It currently covers Druids Heath but will be developed in Allens Croft. As part of the Be Bham funding for the neighbourhood cluster - there is £20k available under the successful neighbourhoods fund. This is for local organisations to bid into.

Full Council

2010-05-26T02:51:00.001-07:00

Tuesday 25th May

We had the 1st full council meeting of the new municipal year which elects the new Lord Mayor. This year it was a Conservative nominate. We selected Len Gregory, former Brandwood Councillor. The role of the Lord Mayor is to represent the city. They attend about 1500 functions in a year. During the year the Mayors acts in a non-political way which is always adhered to by all parties.

Any transport ideas

2010-05-24T01:47:00.000-07:00

Monday 24th May

Lets hope that the sun continues whilst out and about in the ward. I have had a look at a few schemes that residents have suggested for Highway matters. I have recently been told by Highways that there will be £50K for each Ward to spend on the following schemes:-
Purchase of grit bins
Provision of lighting studs
Construction of double kerbing to protect grass verges
Any suggestions let me know.

Noise problems

2010-05-17T05:38:00.000-07:00

Monday 17th May

I have had a number of complaints about noise from residents over the weekend. Normally it is noise from neighbours. This time it has been some what different.

I have had a complaint about the noise of a public house on Alcester Road South and the rag and bone man down Kings Road. I have written to the council asking them to take appropriate action. If people cannot get peace in their own home where can they get it.

Marsham Road/ Meadfoot Avenue update

2010-05-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

Sunday 16th May

Over the last few months I have been in regular contact with a number of residents about the problems of mess around the alleyways at Marsham Road/ Meadfoot Avenue. I have chased up the council about 3 issues:-
The mess left by the contractors following the repair of the fence
Land ownership
Cleaning up the mess with some sort of residents action day

Funding has been provided for a gating scheme here and at Camford Grove subject to all resident agreement.

Post election

2010-05-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Monday 10th May

Now that the election is over it is back to what I am really concerned with which is improving our local community. Today, I have written a letter of objection about a planning application on Grove Road. The proposal is looking to double the size of the house. I believe this will have an adverse effect on the neighbours properties.

Over and out

2010-05-07T13:08:00.000-07:00

Friday 7th May

Well the election is over, so life will be returning to normal. Unfortunately we didn't get the vote we all wanted and Labour held onto the Parliamentary and Council seats.

2010 General Election results for Selly Oak Constituency
Candidate Party Votes cast Elected
Burgess, Jeff United Kingdom Independence Party 1,131 No
Burn, James Green Party 664 No
Dawkins, Nigel Douglas Conservative Party 14,468 No
Leeds, Samuel Luke The Christian Party 159 No
McCabe, Steve Labour Party 17,950 YES
Orton, Lynette Ann British National Party 1,820 No
Radcliffe, David Stephen Liberal Democrats 10,371 No

2010 Local Election results for Brandwood
Candidate Party Votes cast Elected
Austin, Steven John Green Party 347 No
Johnson, Derek Anthony Conservative Party 3,772 No
Leddy, Mike Labour Party 4,706 YES
Marinoni, Morag Christian Peoples Alliance 108 No
Orton, Lynette Ann British National Party 731 No
Peace, Brian Alec Liberal Democrats 1,929 No

Eve of poll

2010-05-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 5th May

I have been quiet on the blog over the last week due to the never ending supply of leaflets and electors to meet. Well we are finally here the election is upon us. Polls open in a few hours. I hope that you will be voting Conservative. Remember you have 2 votes for the Local and General Election.

Leaders Debate

2010-04-30T02:08:00.001-07:00

Thursday 29th April

I was delighted that the Leaders debate was at Birmingham University, Birmingham. I attended an organised event at the Old Library, Digbeth. I felt that David Cameron gave his best performace so far, as the opinion polls tend to suggest. What was great about the event was that it was free and we even got a free drink.

Bus stop Vicarge Road/ Kings Road

2010-04-28T04:49:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 28th April

I have been contacted by various residents about the removal of the bus stop at
Vicarage Road/Kings Heath Road, Kings Heath. Centro claim that they have removed it due to health and safety. I am still at a loss to see why this bus stop has been closed due to health and safety reasons. Why wasn't it closed 2 years ago, 5 years ago, 10 years ago when the stop was there. I am not aware of anything changing around the area that much since then.

The key part of Centro's response below is
"the Local Highways Office carried out an in-depth study into accident statistics in this area. This study highlighted a number of road traffic accidents at this
location. As a result the Local Highways Officer ruled that given the
history of accidents at this location, the stopping point was no longer
a safe stopping point for buses to use. Based on this information we
were instructed to remove the bus stopping point."

Postal Votes

2010-04-26T08:32:00.000-07:00

Monday 26th April

With the election in full swing I have been out delivering postal vote letters on Druids Heath. If you have a postal vote you should be getting the ballot paper over the next few days. Remember you have 2 votes for the General and Local election. We are expecting it to be close. I hope you will be voting Conservative on May 6th. Remember only the Conservatives can beat Labour in the Local and General elections where you live.

Leaders Debate

2010-04-23T00:11:00.000-07:00

Thursday 22nd April

After a day out campaigning, I make sure I am back early tonight so I get to see some of the leaders' debate. I am sure that David Cameron will show how the Conservative Party has changed to show that it has a broader appeal to electors. I particularly like how he has put the environment at the heart of what he and the Party stands for. I remember the days when I was a student in the early 1990s before recycling was very common or topical I used to take the newspapers back to my parents to recycle as I didn’t have easy access to recycling.

Housing Liaison Board

2010-04-22T05:52:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 20th April

I attended the Druids Heath Housing Liaison Board. The have been successful in working together to help improve the local community where they live. The identify issues through the walkabouts that they do on the estate with counillors and officers. Some of the recent issues that have been highlighted are lighting, rubbish and trip rails. Officers will report back at the next meeting on progress.

Campaigning

2010-04-20T00:53:00.001-07:00

Monday 19th April

A day of door knocking and leaflet delivery. It is never ending. Just as we get one leaflet delivered another arrives. There are two elections this year with the Local and General Elections. Both our candidates, Nigel Dawkins, Parliamentary Candidate, and Derek Johnson, Local Government Candidate, are out dawn to dusk as I am sure that all candidates are. They are doing an excellent job. The public never see the less glamorous side of being a politician, all the stuffing of envelopes and leaflet delivery.

Druids Heath Tasking Meeting

2010-04-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

Thursday 15th April

My main council meeting of the day was attending the Druids Heath Tasking Meeting. The police have now changed their boundaries to be the same as local government. However, the Druids Heath Tasking meetings will still continue.
The main issues that were raised:
large gangs of youths causing anti-social behaviour around Pound Road shops,
problems of underage selling of alcohol
drug use in the tower blocks, particularly Topfield House

Manifesto Launch

2010-04-14T01:17:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 13th March

The election campaign is really hotting up. Today we have launched our national manifesto in Birmingham. I hope that this will be the springboard to improving broken Britain. As ever I was needing to be in 2 places at once as it was full council at the same time. I didn't have far to travel as it was in the city centre. When I returned I spoke about the progress that is being made with local services in the community.

Dawberry Fields Allotments

2010-04-11T00:17:00.000-07:00

Sunday 11th April

At a recent meeting the subject of the future of Dawberry Fields allotments came up. Following a site meeting additional maintenance to the allotments has been organised in the interim period until further funds become available from Section 106 money (money that developers put into the community as a condition of being granted planning permission).

Mountaineer Pub

2010-04-10T04:12:00.000-07:00

Saturday 10th April

A number of residents have contacted me about the Mountaineer Pub on Ashburton Road over the last week. From the enquiries that I have made, a sale has been agreed but no contracts have been exchanged. The new owner does intend to re-open as licensed premises. However, they are seeking planning permission for a change of use, I don't know what to, which may take up to 18 months. The potential new owner is an experienced businessman who will have no hesitation in shutting the pub if any trouble occurs. The change of licensing conditions will apply ie closing at 11pm. We will be keeping a watchful eye on developments to make sure that the local residents' quality of life will not be affected.

Election finally announced

2010-04-07T00:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 6th April

Well the Prime Minister has finally called an election for the 6th May. The worst kept secret in history, as everyone has known for months this is when the election will be. Now it is full steam ahead, well it has been for us for months. People cannot accuse us of just turning up at elections as we canvass and deliver literature all year round. Lets hope we can count on your support. Will you be voting ?

Capital Improvments Bid Vicarage Road

2010-04-05T05:15:00.000-07:00

Monday 5th April

Following concerns from local residents I have submitted a capital works improvement scheme on Vicarage Road. It covers the Reeves Road, Millbrook Road, Allens Croft Road entrances. This doesn't mean that the work will get done but we can try. Residents have told me about stories involving accidents, parking problems and poor vision.

Pathway Tunnel, Allens Croft Road

2010-03-31T07:01:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 30th March

Following a consultation with residents about the tunnel under the railway on Allens Croft Road, we had a follow up meeting where we discussed the various options that were put forward. There was agreement that we should do a mural in the tunnel by working with the children in the area so they have ownership of the project. It is hoped that this will stop it getting graffiti on it. We now need to get the project funded and see how long it will take to do.

Allens Croft Project

2010-03-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

Monday 29th March

I attended the Allens Croft Project Management Board meeting. A number of issues were discussed which covered the following:
The funding from the big lottery to help people improve their homes. This covers private and council housing.
The recent health awareness day.
An update on the work of the domestic violence group and work with older people group

Firhill Croft petition

2010-03-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday 27th March

Last year I handed a petition into the council to requesting that the pathway from
Bells Lane to Pennyacre Road (Firhill Croft) be added to the scheduled workload of the mechanical sweeper. I have recently got a response to say that it is.

Constituency Committee

2010-03-25T14:56:00.001-07:00

Tuesday 23rd March

The last Selly Oak Constituency Committee meeting before the General Election. There were a lot of good stories to report the expansion of neighbourhood management, funding that is coming into the area and the Constituency managed to get a balance budget. If only Labour controlled Constituencies could.

Ward Committee

2010-03-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

Monday 22nd March

We had the Brandwood Ward Committee which is an opportunity to discuss matters of concern that effect the area where you live with the ward councillors. There are only normally a handful of people but we had about 50 people attending. They were here to discuss the proposed school merger of Baverstock and Kings Norton High. The main concerns that were raised were increased traffic, anti-social behaviour and pressure on local services.

canal

2010-03-21T06:34:00.000-07:00

Sunday 21st March

Been delivering the never ending supply of leaflets with our Parliamentary Candidate Nigel Dawkins. Just as we get rid of 1 leaflets, another arrives.

Also, I have contacted the Council/ British Waterways about a number of issues.

1. Broken locks on the radar gates on the Stratford Canal between the Brandwood Tunnel and the bridge on Broad Meadow Lane.

2. On the tow path near the bridge at Kings Norton Junction the installation that make cyclists dismount is broken. This allows free access to motorbikes from Brandwood Recreation Area or vice versa.

3. The canal bridge at Lifford Lane/Broad Meadow Lane and the stop/guillotine lock and the bridge at Kings Norton Junction are covered in graffiti.

Gomeldon Avenue & Manningford Road

2010-03-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday 18th March

I have been putting pressure on the council to improve properties on Gomeldon Avenue and Manningford Road. I am pleased that the council are going to do the following in April:
1: Replacement roof covering.
2: Replacement UPVC windows & rear door.
3: Replacement secure by design front door.
4: Wall tie replacement.
5: Drainage inspection & repair where required.
For void properties the contractors will erect security fencing before then.

Britford Close/ Marsham Road

2010-03-20T02:36:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 17th March

Following working with local residents I am pleased to say that the fence at Britford Close has been repaired and the passageway is now secure. All the rubbish/litter picked has been removed. I will arrange for the Hit squad to remove the graffiti next week.

Potential Funding

2010-03-14T05:19:00.000-07:00

Sunday 14th March

Whilst going through my emails I came across some new funding that is available through neighbourhood management which currently covers the Druids Heath and Allens Croft areas. Grants range from £500 - £5000
Main criteria:-
• help shape services to meet the needs of residents
• enhance local public services
• create improvements that can be sustained
• join up local services
• provide opportunities for mainstreaming new, piloted projects
Any ideas let me know.

Baverstock/ Kings Norton High schools update

2010-03-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

Thursday 11th March

A number of residents have contacted me about the proposals for the proposed merger of Kings Norton High and Baverstock and its suggested location at Lindsworth School, Monyhull Hall Road. I have raised 2 important questions about other sites and resident consultation with the council. These are the questions and answers I got from the council.

Q1 What has been done to look at the possibility of other sites? There is, for example, a large green area in front of Baverstock owned by Housing ... where the two tower blocks have been knocked down. What has been done to check this site's feasibility?

A1 We are conducting a feasibility review of available sites in the area, because of costs to education, land already in the directorate's ownership is a strong contender for a new school.

Q2 When in the timeline will residents be consulted?

A2 During the feasibility the sponsor, supported by BCC will consult local residents. On the proposed current timelines this will be between October to December 2010.

Also, I have raised feasibility about the site at Kings Norton High.

Road Safety Issues Grove Road

2010-03-12T05:16:00.001-08:00

Tuesday 9th March

Whilst canvassing in Grove Road the major concern that has come up was about the speed of traffic on the road. Following this I have contacted the engineer for the area. I have asked him to move the speed warning signs that are currently on Broad Lane to Grove Road and have a look at some road safety measures. We can bid into the central council budgets for capital improvement schenes. There is work currently happening with a crossing on Bells Lane through this funding.

Lifford Close

2010-03-07T03:37:00.000-08:00

Sunday 7th March

I have contacted the council asking them to replace a broken fence panel near 31 Lifford Close. Also I have asked the Hit Squad to clean up the rubbish dumped around the back of Lifford Close, which backs onto the reservior. I did get this done in the past but I have noticed that the rubbish is back.

Verge protection measures

2010-03-03T06:49:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 3rd March

I have been contacted by some residents about the problem with the verges getting ruined outside of Broadmeadow School, Bells Lane . Unfortunately this year's verge protection scheme have already been finalised and installed. I have asked that this location is given top priority for 2010/11.

Canvassing

2010-03-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

Tuesday 2nd March

Been out canvassing on Pennyacre Road with our local Government Candidate Derek Johnson. He has been working hard with local residents to try and address some of the concerns within the area. We were pleased with the response that we got. The main issues that were raised was about the proposed merger of Baverstock and Kings Norton High, rubbish and the economic problems.

Easterton Croft

2010-03-02T02:59:00.000-08:00

Monday 2nd March

The Council, on behalf of the Druids Heath Management Board, has sent out letters to residents about the proposed community garden adjacent to Easterton Croft. No plans have been drawn up. This is just an initial consultation to see what residents think. There was some concern about this effecting the foundations of the tower blocks nearby but engineers have looked at this and are happy that it won't. The design may involve removing old hedgerow, landscaping the area and visually improving the site. The Druids Heath Neighbourhood Management Board, are committed to the wishes of all residents, and therefore would not commit to a project without consultation. Do you have any comments ?

Grit Bins

2010-02-28T02:05:00.000-08:00

Thursday 25th February

Following the recent announcement that each ward will be having 5 more grit bins that they can locate I have submitted 1 for Sherston Covert. If you have any requests please let me know. The Labour Party might complain about the lack of grit bins locally but when they were the ruling Group there were a lot less as they decided to scrap them which caused havoc down many local areas.

Council Tax increase 1.9%

2010-02-27T06:43:00.000-08:00

Tuesday 23rd February

Another action packed debate at full council, you would never guess an election is on the way. The Conservative led Council has managed to keep council tax below the rate of inflation to a 1.9% increase. This is the 5th year in a row that we have been able to do this since we have been the ruling group on the council in 2004. This was in sharp contrast to Labour when they were the ruling Group which saw above inflation increases year after year.

Alcohol Restricted Zones

2010-02-22T04:23:00.001-08:00

Monday 22nd February

A number of 'Alcohol Restricted Zone' signs have been put up around Brandwood Ward and more on Druids Heath following further local funding. This means that alcohol is not allowed to be drunk in public places even if signs are not up. The police can still enforce this. Following complaints from local residents I have requested some further signs in Beckfield Close and around Partons Road.