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Cannon Hill Park to Moseley Cycle Lane Extension

Work will start on 4th November to construct the A38 to Moseley cycle spur along Edgbaston Road to Salisbury Road/Park Hill. The work is expected to last approximately 3 months and will involve upgrading the pedestrian crossing on the entrance to Russell Road and constructing a further crossing on Edgbaston Road as it meets Salisbury Road.

This project is funded by the Active Travel Fund, which is ring-fenced funding made available by the government for delivering active travel measures. This funding cannot be allocated elsewhere.

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Moseley & Kings Heath PSPO

Finally, after four years since the last one expired, and after many months of emails, packages of evidence and lobbying, on 1st October 2024 the Public Space Protection Order became operational in Moseley & Kings Heath.

The order will be in effect for three years and prohibits, within the designated area, the following:

Damage or destruction of property (graffiti).

Groups causing anti-social behaviour

Being under the influence of intoxicating substance (including Nitrous Oxide) and/or alcohol while in a public place

Full details of the order can be found on the council website here

I have asked for regular updates to be given on its progress via the Local Safety Community Partnership which I attend together with Council Officers and Police.

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2296 over 80s at risk of losing Winter Fuel Payments in Hall Green & Moseley Constituency as Lib Dems call on government to “change course”

 

2296 of those aged over 80 in Hall Green and Moseley are at risk of losing their Winter Fuel Payments due to the government’s cuts, the latest official statistics released yesterday (24th September) have revealed.

Liberal Democrats, have called on the new government to “change course” in the face of these new statistics saying that ministers must “protect vulnerable pensioners” with thousands at risk of having to choose between heating and eating this winter.

Analysis of the new data shows that in Hall Green & Moseley Constituency 2296 pensioners aged over 80 are not in receipt of pension credit and will lose their Winter Fuel Payment they were previously entitled to unless they receive other benefits. 

All those aged over 80 were previously entitled to £300 each to help with their energy bills to stay warm during the winter months but many will now lose this money.

In total, last year those aged over 80 in Hall Green & Moseley received £965,100 in support with £2358,500 given out to all pensioners in the constituency. This figure will drastically fall this winter following the withdrawal of support by the government for the vast majority of pensioners.

In total 9885 pensioners in Hall Green & Moseley do not receive pension credit and are also at risk of losing support due to the government’s cuts.

Age UK has previously said that 2.5 million pensioners will “be in serious trouble” this winter due to the cutting of the payments. Hall Green & Moseley’s Lib Dems called on the government to “reverse these proposals and protect vulnerable pensioners” this winter. 

Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Hall Green & Moseley, Izzy Knowles said:

“Thousands of pensioners here in Birmingham are desperately worried about how they will make it through this winter. We are especially concerned about vulnerable older pensioners, and these figures are deeply worrying. 

“We have heard countless stories from those who now say they will have to choose between staying warm or putting food on the table as a result of this government’s decision. 

“Cutting these payments for thousands of my constituents, including many that are just barely getting by, is the completely wrong thing to be doing.

“It is not too late for this new government to change course, reverse these proposals and protect vulnerable pensioners here in Birmingham this winter.”

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Application for 5G mast – Moor Green Lane

A planning application has been submitted by Cornerstone Telecommunications for:

‘ Application for a prior notification for the installation of 25m high telecommunications mast with associated 12no. antennas, 4no. transmission dishes, 6no. equipment cabinets, 1no. meter cabinet and ancillary development works’

The mast would be situated on the Moseley Ashfield Cricket Club site near to the Queensbridge Road/ Moor Green Lane/Reddings Road junction. This is on the boundary, but just outside, Moseley Conservation area.

Details can be found via the Birmingham City Council planning portal ref 2024/05521/PA. Comments of support or objection can be submitted online by 22/10/2024

https://eplanning.birmingham.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorer/Generic/StdDetails.aspx?PT=Planning%20Applications%20On-Line&TYPE=PL/PlanningPK.xml&PARAM0=1319507&XSLT=/Northgate/PlanningExplorer/SiteFiles/Skins/Birmingham/xslt/PL/PLDetails.xslt&FT=Planning%20Application%20Details&PUBLIC=Y&XMLSIDE=/Northgate/PlanningExplorer/SiteFiles/Skins/Birmingham/Menus/PL.xml&DAURI=PLANNING
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Protect our parks

On 2nd August some Councillors and Friends groups of our parks received an email to say that a trial was to take place in August involving the gate locking service. Currently thirty four parks in the city have their gates locked at night by a private contractor. The parks are those that have car parks within the park and it is the car park gates that are locked. The trial would entail the gates being left open overnight to the car parks in seven parks across the city.

Ending the gate locking contract will save the council money in the short term but has huge long term implications of the security of our parks after darkness. The gate locking crews have also previously assisted people in distress who may have intended to harm themselves in the parks after dark.
This is the letter received:

Following concerns raised by Friends groups and residents I wrote to the director of Street Scene and Cabinet member to ask how the impact of the trial would be measured.

20240815 Gate locking in parks – briefing note v0.1Download

I have received this reply with a briefing note listing all 34 parks where the locking service is used. These include Cannon Hill Park, Highbury Park, Kings Heath Park, Windermere Fields and Swanshurst Park.

I intend to ask for more details of the trial and the bench marking exercise referred to in the briefing note. In the meantime I have urged all friends groups and residents to report issues in the parks, especially at night, to both council and police.

Councillor Izzy Knowles

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Love not Hate

This is my statement following the events over last weekend:

The scenes many of us have witnessed on mainstream and social media over the weekend are sickening. This is not protest, it is criminal intimidation, thuggery and riot. People taking part, even in minor or organising roles are looking at arrest, prosecution, and potentially long prison sentences. Arson with intent to endanger life, or reckless as to whether life is endangered has a maximum term of life imprisonment.

Birmingham has a proud history of diversity, warmth and friendship. We will stand up to any attempts to divide us. Racists, thugs and oppressors and those that organise and instigate them are not welcome here.

Remember the people taking part in these so called demonstrations are a minority and not representative of our country. The vast majority of people, what ever their political views, find this type of behaviour repulsive.

I agree with Ed Davey when he said we should take heart from the compassion, kindness and decency shown towards the victims and community of the dreadful attack in Southport a week ago and those who have exploited that tragedy to commit appalling violence against Muslims, asylum seekers and communities of colour should feel the full force of the law.

I am aware of some posts circulating on social media and in residents groups which are causing some tension, upset and alarm.

If anyone feels fearful or intimidated or has any concerns please reach out to your local Councillors or to your local police team for reassurance and advice.

Councillor Izzy Knowles Moseley ward

Lib Dem Parliamentary Spokesperson – Birmingham Hall Green and Moseley

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EU citizens – disenfranchised yet again.

Izzy has written to the Elections Office in Birmingham to query a letter that has been sent to EU citizens across Birmingham who registered to vote after 31st December 2020. The letter is requesting the recipient to fill in a form online or to contact the Electoral Office to answer unspecified questions.

Izzy has two big concerns about the wording of the letter and it’s implications on EU citizens right to vote being wrongly removed. Firstly it mentions arrivals as a family member, which is not specified on the government website and secondly it does not notify the recipient if they fail to respond they may lose their right to vote, or that they have a right to appeal if they are determined not eligible to vote.

The letter is in response to the Elections Act which made changes to EU citizens rights to vote or stand in local elections after Brexit and came into force on 7th May 2024.

EU citizens are now only be able to register, vote or stand as a candidate in local elections in England if:

  • they are a citizen of Denmark, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal and Spain who is resident in the UK, has permission to enter or stay in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man, or who does not need permission
  • they are a citizen of any other EU country who on or before 31 December 2020 was legally resident in the UK, had permission to enter or stay in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man, or who did not need permission, and this has continued without a break

EU citizens cannot vote or stand as a candidate in UK Parliament elections .

The changes do not apply to:

  • Scottish Parliament and council elections in Scotland
  • Senedd and local council elections in Wales

EU citizens who registered to vote before 31st December 2020 and have full or pre – settled status are being informed their right to vote in local elections is secure.

Cover photo: Izzy Knowles with credit to DOROD who organised an EU Flag relay across the UK in 2019 to raise awareness and belonging to the EU.

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Re build Heartlands Hospital A & E

Birmingham Liberal Democrats are campaigning for Government finding to improve Heartlands Accident and Emergency services. Lots of residents have had poor experiences at the hospital because of long waits for care and poor facilities on site. Staff at the hospital do their best under difficult circumstances.

The problem is serious underfunding and a lack of GP appointments in the area that is adding pressure to an already over-stretched service. Local councillor NAME said “I have heard stories of people waiting over 24 hours to be seen, and people who have been treated in cupboards because of the lack of space available. The A&E department is not big enough to cope with demand. It needs urgent investment and the Liberal Democrats are campaigning hard for that.”

The Liberal Democrats want to see a new or improved building at the hospital. One that is big enough to cope with the demand of over 400,000 people who live in the area. There is a lot of deprivation around the area and health issues. Better care is needed to improve the health of local people and that starts with investment.

To achieve this, we need your support so that our voices get heard in the corridors of power at Westminster.


Watch our campaign video

Sign our petition

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Izzy asks for an extension to the Library Consultation

Last Tuesday 9th July was a full council meeting. I prepared a question to ask Cllr Saima Suleman – the Cabinet lead for Digital, Culture, Heritage & Tourism to ask if she would consider extending the Library Consultation, due to end on Wednesday 17th July, because of the General Election.
However, I was not called by the Lord Mayor in the time limit given for verbal questions. I therefore later emailed the question to Cllr Suleman. I am sad to say I have not even received an acknowledgement.

The question is as follows:

‘Dear  Cllr Suleman

I hoped to ask you this question at full council on Tuesday but I was not called by the Lord Mayor.

Has any consideration been given to extending the first phase of the consultation please, due to the distraction of the recent general election and the possible change of direction on regional and LA funding considering we have a new Government in office?

 The potential closure and loss of our library services is very controversial, as is evidenced by the strength of feeling in the number of ongoing questions, petitions, events and protests we are all aware of.

3771 questionnaire responses received on Be Heard does not seem representative of a population of over 1.1 million people and does not correspond to the number of people who have signed petitions.

Planned Face to face events which could have obtained more detailed feedback, especially from people who might find filling in a 30-minute questionnaire daunting, have now been postponed to the second phase. This does not send a good message that initial feedback is being taken seriously. 

Members who may have assisted the last few weeks in promoting the consultation have instead understandably been involved in election campaigning. 

The libraries portfolio has recently been transferred to the Neighbourhoods Overview and Scrutiny committee, but that group has not had the opportunity to consider the budget implications and does not meet again until late July.

The restructuring of the library service has potential impact on our communities, especially young people for decades to come. It is imperative the council listens to its residents and gets this right. Save Libraries campaign groups have already stated they feel this consultation is deeply flawed.

Would you please consider extending the consultation at least to the middle of August, if not longer ? This would allow more responses to be made but also give more children and families chance to take part when school breaks up for the holidays. 

I look forward to your reply

Best wishes

Izzy’

Councillor Izzy Knowles

Moseley Ward

Birmingham City Council

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Izzy 4 MP

Commenting on her selection as prospective parliamentary candidate in the seat of Birmingham Hall Green and Moseley, Councillor Izzy Knowles said:

 “I have spent my entire working life at the grass roots in the public sector in children’s services, 30 years a Police Officer, 5 years with a homeless charity and the last two years I have been privileged to represent Moseley as a local Councillor.

My experience of working with communities of all faiths and none is that we all want the same core things for our families and friends: sound healthcare, good housing, clean air, affordable public transport, decent schools, good care provision for loved ones and a safe and welcoming neighbourhood.

Hall Green & Moseley has not had a committed local representative in Parliament for many years.  I believe it is time for change.  I would harness the knowledge and guidance of local experts, business and community power, to champion Hall Green and Moseley and our fabulous city. I’d work collaboratively to bring investment and improvement to tackle the inequalities and injustices we see every day. I would get things done and I would hold people to account.

I’ve been deeply saddened by the destructive and detrimental impact of the current Conservative Government. From a disastrous Brexit, causing division in our communities, to a woeful lack of progress on environmental matters and trashing our economy, they have let us down now, and they have let down future generations too.

Birmingham Labour have brought us local austerity too. The cuts caused by their mismanagement will be deep and devastating, and they will impact people for generations.

Liberal Democrats want to do things differently.

We will fight to undo the disaster of Brexit, to return to stronger, better international relations that allow the big issues such as international conflicts and climate change to be resolved at the right level.

We will fight to fix services in Britain so that it doesn’t feel like everything is broken.

We want a fair deal for you, and I will fight for that in this election.

I am proud to stand for Birmingham Hall Green & Moseley as the Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate”.

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Second phase of the Kings Heath & Moseley LTN published for consultation.

Places for People in Kings Heath & Moseley aims to reduce traffic in residential neighbourhoods. The first phase of this scheme was delivered as a trial in 2020 and made permanent in 2022 with the intention that a second phase would implement a revised area-wide scheme. 

The council is now seeking feedback specifically on the designs for this second phase.

Measures have been grouped into four packages for delivery. The council is seeking feedback on the designs for measures included in the first two packages:

  • Package 1: improvements to phase 1 measures to the west of Kings Heath High Street including the York Road pedestrian zone.
  • Package 2: new measures being introduced to the east of Kings Heath High Street and in Moseley including modal filters, one-way streets, and physical traffic calming.

The overview plan below shows the locations of the planned measures. To review the specific designs, you can read the design notes and download the individual plans from the consultation page.

A design key features document has been prepared as a brief description of the different types of measure.

The consultation questionnaire also describes the packages and asks if you would like to comment on each one.

View the documents and take part in the consultation HERE

Consultation closes 2nd June.

Izzy & Radley will be talking to residents across the Moseley area in the next few weeks to obtain feedback and help answer questions. We will have hard copy of the plans available for residents who cannot access them online.

An in person event will be organised for residents to meet officers, learn more about the plans and ask questions.


You can also email us at moseleylibdems.co.uk

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St Bernards and Moseley Schools Safer School Streets scheme gets approval

A proposal for a Safer School Streets scheme for St Bernards RC School and Moseley School has at last received approval and will progress to local Traffic Regulation Order consultation.
The scheme includes the installation of double yellow line restricted parking along Wake Green Road between the two schools, including at the junctions of Pool Meadow Close, Berkeley Crescent and Aster Drive. Railings will be extended outside St Bernards School and installed on the junction opposite to prevent pavement parking. Dropped kerbs to allow accessible crossing for wheelchair/mobility scooter users and parents with buggies will be installed at the junction of Aster Drive as currently there are none.

Izzy has been supporting St Bernards School in their campaign for safer streets outside school and has also talked previously to the Head of Moseley School. She welcomes these measures which will make the road safer and will enable council parking enforcement to prevent some of the appalling pavement parking that takes place outside both schools.

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Save Our Libraries – Once they are gone they are gone

The current financial crisis at Birmingham City Council is soon to be laid bare, as the budget will be presented at city council on 5 March. We have been told to expect major cuts to the library service, and we know that the plan is to retain just 11 of the 36 libraries in Birmingham. That means that our local libraries in Sparkhill,  Hall Green and Kings Heath are at risk of being closed down.

Libraries don’t just provide books – they provide refuge from the cold, company for lonely people, space for community organisations and a hub for civic related duties. They are a free place to go with children and a place that inspires people to learn and develop, and they are a quiet place to go to if things are difficult at home.

We have launched a petition to keep Sparkhill, Hall Green and Kings Heath libraries open. They are all well used by their local communities and it would be a tragedy to lose even one of them.

Pledge your support and Sign our petition here

The petition will be presented to full council at the budget meeting on 5th March

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Izzy challenges the council to stop assuming everyone has access to the internet

At Full Council meeting on 6th February Izzy raised the issue of Birmingham City Council sending out letters to residents in receipt of single person discount on their council tax. The letter told them to go online within 3 weeks of the date of the letter to declare their continued eligibility or lose the discount. There was no provision for anyone with no internet access or who doesn’t have a trusted relative or friend to help. The letter has caused distress to many people who were unable to comply with the instructions.

You can see Izzy’s speech here:

The next day the council agreed to add a phone number to future letters. 0121 303 1113

If you know anyone who has had one of these letters and needs help to complete the online link, let Izzy know.

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Bus Lane & parking restrictions St Mary’s Row to Reddings Road to be removed following error in consultation

The recent alterations to the road markings and parking restrictions in Alcester Road were implemented as part of a project to improve bus journey times. The project was led by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) working alongside Birmingham City Council.

Details of the project can be seen on the council consultation page:

https://www.birminghambeheard.org.uk/economy/moseleyrdalcesterrdbus/

Following queries made by residents and businesses Izzy questioned TfWM as she had concerns that the statutory consultation that took place in 2022 did not include all the correct maps and documents relating to the section of A435 between St Mary’s Row and Reddings Road. In addition, it did not appear that any consultation letters had been sent to residents or businesses along this section.

TfWM have now confirmed this in a written statement:

TfWM have further confirmed that the newly installed double yellow lines between St Mary’s Row and Reddings Road are not enforceable. They have agreed with BCC to remove them and return this section back to the existing (previous) Traffic Regulation Order. This will be undertaken within the next 2 weeks, following approval of relevant highway permits by BCC. They will also be reverting to the original centre line between Reddings Rd and Farquhar Rd, the lane widths will then be adjusted to St. Mary’s Row.

Izzy has had further correspondence from TFWM… for the foreseeable future we will not look to bring back a TRO consultation to implement the measures between Reddings Road and St. Mary’s Row incorrectly installed.

Izzy has written to the parking team to make them aware any fixed penalty notices issued since the double yellow lines were installed should be repealed.

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Birmingham City Council officially support the Climate and Ecology Bill

On 9th January, together with Councillor Deborah Harries  Izzy successfully raised a motion for Birmingham City Council to officially support the Zero Hour campaign to get the Climate and Ecology Bill through Parliament. 

The Climate and Ecology Bill is a plan to:

1. Make sure the UK cuts its emissions fairly and fully to stand the best chance of keeping 1.5°C alive
2. Make sure the UK reverses the destruction of nature by 2030
3. Involve citizens in deciding the fairest way forward

In her speech to the council Izzy thanked the children of Camp Hill Schools who inspired her to bring this motion to full council following their Climate Assembly in October.  She called for positive and can do action from everyone, and encouraged them all to sign up to support the Climate and Ecology Bill.

Climate change is something that worries people, especially young people, and it’s small wonder, given the scale of the problem.

The Climate & Ecology Bill, a private member’s bill is expected to go back before the House of Commons in early 2024. It seeks to address the challenges that this situation poses by creating a whole-of-government approach to deliver a net zero and nature positive future.

Based on the latest science, the CE Bill aims to:

• Align current UK environmental policy on the need to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030, which was goal agreed to at COP15, via the Kunming-Montreal Framework (22 December 2022) and;

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the UK’s fair share of the remaining global carbon budget to give the strongest chance of limiting global heating to 1.5°C, which was the goal agreed to at COP21, via the Paris Agreement (12 December 2015).

By bridging the gap between the UK Government’s current delivery and what has been agreed at international levels, Britain has a chance to be a world leader on climate and the environment; seizing the opportunities of the clean energy transition, including green jobs and skills, reduced energy bills and a boost for the UK’s food and energy security.

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Birmingham City Council has updated it’s Road Safety Strategy – now open to consultation.

Birmingham City Council has updated it’s Road Safety Strategy and released it for consultation.

The Birmingham Road Harm Reduction Strategy has been developed to complement the Birmingham Transport Plan. It sets out to transform Birmingham’s roads and streets to make them safer, more inclusive, and more attractive.

Take part in the consultation HERE

The ambition of the strategy is to end death and serious injury for users of Birmingham’s roads in line with the Vision Zero concept, which aspires to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries. 

The previous Birmingham Road Safety Strategy was adopted in October 2016. Whilst aligned with Vision Zero, its approach did not tackle traffic volume and its significant impact on road safety.

The revised strategy adopts the Healthy Streets Approach and is aligned directly with the vision, aim, objectives and principles of the Birmingham Transport Plan:

  • Prioritising active travel in local neighbourhoods – upgrading and improving streets in our local neighbourhoods to ensure they are attractive, inclusive, and safe environments for people walking, cycling and using public transport.
  • Reallocating road space – consolidating most motor vehicle journeys in Birmingham onto a defined and prioritised Arterial Route Network, whilst removing through trips from residential streets wherever possible.
  • Transforming the city centre – removing through motor traffic from the city centre, and redesigning public spaces to prioritise public transport, walking and cycling.
  • Managing demand – proactive management of the kerbside (the part of the road closest to the footway) to release the space needed for safe, healthy streetscapes, whilst improving access to local services and facilities.

Paper copies of the consultation survey, along with copies of the strategy will be left at all of the city libraries from the week commencing 15 January 2024 (or you can email Izzy and we’ll send you one). The council also plans to hold a small number of drop in events, details of which will follow.

If you have any queries, please email: connected@birmingham.gov.uk

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Motion on Israel & Gaza – call for bilateral ceasefire

On Tuesday 7th November, exactly a month after the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel, which triggered the devastating Israel / Gaza conflict, Cllrs Ayoub Khan and Izzy Knowles brought a motion to full council proposing a humanitarian solution to the conflict, including support for refugees and for tolerance and understanding in our own communities.

The horrors and repercussions of this dispute have had a profound affect across both the Jewish and Muslim communities here in Birmingham. West Midlands Police, and organisations like the CST and Tell Mama have reported a rise in both anti Semitic and Islamophobic hate incidents.

You can see Izzy’s speech to council here

The motion had two amendments from the Labour group which we accepted. The amended motion was overwhelmingly voted in favour. It reads:
This council recognises that the horrors and repercussions of the conflict in Palestine and Israel have had a profound affect across all communities, but notably the Muslim and Jewish communities here in Birmingham.

West Midlands Police, and organisations like the CST and Tell Mama have reported a rise in both Islamophobic and antisemitic hate incidents.

In Birmingham, we have seen incidences of antisemitic and Islamophobic graffiti, with more than two hundred tags of a racist, offensive, antisemitic or Islamophobic nature reported and removed since October 7th. We must not allow the tragic events in the Middle East to divide our communities in the city, and we understand and feel the pain of all people in the city, especially the Muslim and Jewish communities.

This Council condemns those who have used this crisis to whip up hatred, sow division, and spread misinformation in our city.

This council acknowledges that it has a duty of care to the people of Birmingham, and must lead the way in promoting peace, tolerance and respect.

This Council notes:

  1. There is a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. It is likely that this will impact Gazans throughout 2023 and beyond.
  1. An immediate and sustainable ceasefire is needed, so that aid can get into Gaza, the hostages can be freed, and work can take place to deescalate this horrific conflict. Save the Children have highlighted that more children have been reported killed in this conflict than the annual number of children killed across the world’s conflicts zones since 2019. The international community has a responsibility to work towards a peace process and a two-state solution.
  1. It is unlikely that many Palestinians will be able to return home for a substantial time.
  1. With Birmingham having a proud status as a City of Sanctuary for people fleeing war torn countries and persecution. It is important that we in Birmingham, together with other communities in the UK, prepare to accommodate any refugees from this conflict that seek re-location.
  1. Building on the success of the Homes for the Ukraine Scheme, a similar package must be offered to refugees choosing to flee the conflict.

This Council therefore:

  1. Will write to the Government seeking the provision of a support package for refugees fleeing the conflict and provide further aid to assist the UN Agencies in their humanitarian work so that British citizens can get home safely, and Palestinian people are able to stay in their homeland.”.
  1. Will support the active engagement of the voluntary sector in delivering aid and support to refugees from the conflict.
  1. Will proactively engage with any Government schemes to house refugees from the conflict to ensure that all refugees are given a warm welcome in Birmingham.
  1. Calls on everyone in Birmingham to show tolerance and respect at this time of significant stress to many communities; especially those of the Muslim and Jewish faiths.
  1. Will work with faith communities to explore setting up more third-party hate crime reporting mechanisms and write to the Home Secretary to urge Government to reverse its decision to downgrade the monitoring of non-crime hate incidents specifically related to antisemitism and Islamophobia so they can be logged by the police.”

Liberal Democrats nationally have also called for an immediate bilateral ceasefire to get aid in, get the hostages out, and provide space to realise a political solution, ultimately with two states and a lasting peace. 

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Young People are our future – tackling the climate emergency

Today Izzy spent the afternoon at the 2023 Schools Climate Assembly talking to students from KEVI Camp Hill Girls & Boys schools about local democracy, what Birmingham City Council is doing to tackle the climate emergency & how they as young people can make their voices heard in politics.

Izzy spoke about the progress of the council since declaring a climate emergency in 2019, specifically mentioning the Transport Policy, our dependence on cars and the need for more connected safe bike lanes; the Veolia incinerator at Tyseley and its effect on our re-use and re-cycling rates and her efforts to support Bee Friendly Brum in their campaign to stop the council using harmful pesticides in our streets and parks.

As part of the speech she referred to climate change scorecards which were released this week. These are a national online resource, comparing council performance across seven key categories. Birmingham City Council achieved an average score of 39%. Although 4 percentage points above the average, it’s a reflection of how poor the situation is across the country.

Cllr Roger Harmer the Birmingham Lib Dem leader commented on the scorecards: “there are several areas where Birmingham needs to up its game.

“Transport management is key to reducing pollutants and reducing carbon emissions is a key priority area. We need to make more progress on improving the electric car charging network and the council should be more proactive in developing car clubs to reduce the number of cars on our streets whilst increasing the number of people with access to cars”.

“The council currently scores poorly in terms of waste management and recycling. We have long argued for the introduction of kerbside food waste recycling, as part of a plan to end the need of incineration of waste”.

Liberal Democrats have long campaigned for increasing the installation of solar panel on the Council’s rooves to save costs as well as carbon emissions.

Governance and finance is a particularly low scoring area, with the Council achieving just 6%. Cllr Harmer said “There’s a new team in place working on this at the council. I hope they are being listened to by decision makers”.

Recently, Izzy and Councillor Jon Hunt have encouraged the council to reduce use of glyphosate; a weedkiller that damages wildlife – notably vital bee populations. To date, the weedkiller is still being used by the council and partner organisations.

The Government also needs to do more, particular in terms of helping to radically improve the insulation of our homes and other buildings.

The scorecards can be accessed here:

Izzy finished her speech by urging young people to take an interest in politics and to campaign for things that are important to them. She talked about the recent elections in Poland and how young people turned out in their thousands to vote for a change in government.

The students have all been asked to write letters to people who can influence policy, including national and local politicians and business leaders. Izzy has agreed to deliver any letters addressed to Birmingham Councillors and to ensure they get a reply.

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Welcoming Ukrainian delegates to Birmingham

On 3rd October Cllr Izzy Knowles, together with the Lib Dem group leader, Cllr Roger Harmer was proud to welcome a delegation of Ukrainians from eight Universities, including Birmingham’s twin city of Zaporizhizhia and from the Ukrainian Ministry of Education & Science to the Council House.

The delegates were hosted by Aston University as part of an Erasmus + MultiEd project, an EU programme to support education, training, youth and sport.

Marsela Hoxha from the Homes for Ukraine team at the council said in an internal council update:

‘Cllr Knowles’ ward, Moseley, is one of the wards with the highest numbers of Ukrainian guests being hosted in the city – and she was, herself, a host to a Ukrainian family. She has proactively maintained a close contact with our teams, and has contributed by providing feedback regarding delivery of services and needs identified from her various engagements with partners, hosts/guests and her constituents. This has helped us to continue to improve our services.

“Cllr Harmer was also involved with the Homes for Ukraine scrutiny panel earlier this year – and has since been following the development of the services/improvements on the areas identified.

“The delegation heard me (Marsela) and my team, about the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ project – and the solidarity and support given to Ukrainians fleeing the war. The delegates also heard the ‘lived experiences’ stories from Ukrainian guests, who currently live in Birmingham – and we all shared a deeper understanding of the situation facing people back in Ukraine: and their desire to keep education and learning at the centre of rebuilding Ukraine.

“Participants from Zaporizhzhia City brought a letter of appreciation from their Mayor for the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Chaman Lal, expressing their gratitude for the welcome and support provided by BCC and its partners to the Ukrainian guests. This was received gratefully by the two councillors present, on the Lord Mayor’s behalf.

“We all committed as organisations – and individuals – to continue to support the Ukrainians who are now part of our community of Birmingham; and to maintain communication, and strengthen our relationship, via future collaborations.”

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We condemn the violence and urge Brummies to unite against hate.

This weekend attacks across Israel caused the deaths of hundreds of people. Latest reports put the Israeli death toll at around 700, including 260 who were killed at a festival. In Gaza, the death toll is rising quickly. Latest reports from Gaza are citing 370 civilians killed.

Liberal Democrat councillors have received calls from Birmingham residents who are concerned both by this weekends attacks, and the warnings of reprisals in the region. People here are fearful, angry and upset as tensions increase in the Middle East. 

Cllr Ayoub Khan reflected thoughtfully; conscious that focusing solely on the attacks as isolated incidents does not reflect the wider, decades old dispute between Israel and Palestine that has made heartbreak, separation and bloodshed a way of life.  “We condemn all forms of violence and no loss of innocent life is acceptable. If we are to bring an end to this decades old conflict, there needs to be a fair deal for the Palestinian people.”

Councillor Izzy Knowles commented “The videos & news from Israel are horrific. This type of violence against innocent civilians can never ever be justified. I have written to the Police Inspector Neil Kirkpatrick asking for extra police attention and reassurance for our affected communities particularly King David’s school”

Birmingham’s diversity is it’s greatest strength. Tolerance and acceptance for others underpins that, and during difficult times we hold tight to these values.

Birmingham Liberal Democrats encourage the international community to assist in providing medical supplies, treatment and safe passage for people who are now at a much greater risk of being caught up in the crossfire. 

21st October update :
Izzy has been contacted by more residents upset and angry at the continuing violence, the news and images coming from both Israel and Gaza. She has responded:

“I am devastated and deeply troubled by the terrible events both in Israel and in Gaza. My heart is like I have a brick in it; viewing social media and watching the news is heartbreaking. I grieve for all the victims and families who are going through unimaginable suffering.

I totally condemn the actions of Hamas, there can never ever be justification for the terrorism, hostage taking and brutal murder of innocent lives that happened over the weekend of 7th and 8th October.

But neither can there be justification for reprisals that violate international law and punish and kill civilians. Time and time again events in our world have shown reacting with violence only results in more suffering and more violence.

I believe, our politicians should be listening to our communities and pushing for:

An immediate ceasefire on both sides

Immediate release of all hostages

Flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and safe routes out for those injured or sick

Deployment of UN peacekeepers

Investigation and prosecution of terrorism and war crimes

An international collaboration to achieve a lasting two state solution where communities can live and prosper in peace and friendship.

I am also very troubled to see so much polarisation and increase of hate across our own communities. At times like these we need to come together, to listen, to respectfully challenge rather than hatefully accuse, to learn with open minds and to accept differences but find common ground.”

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Grade 2 Listed Moseley Rd Tram depot to be turned into flats?

Izzy has been in regular contact with Birmingham Planning Enforcement team about the condition of the Grade 2 listed Moseley Road Tram Depot at 582, Moseley Road which has been in an appalling derelict state for many years.

Moseley Road Tram Depot was opened on the 1st January 1907 and had a capacity of 77 tram cars. In 1949 it was converted for buses, it later became West Midlands Travel Engineering Workshops. The Office building remained in use as offices for most of the 20th Century but it has been empty and derelict for over 25 years.

The council has conducted a survey of the building in order to serve a notice of essential repairs on the owner. Recently the frontage has been cleared of rubbish.

A planning application has now been submitted to turn the building into 9 self contained flats. Comments can be made until 27th October 2023

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Moseley & Kings Heath Places for People (LTN) latest update

Birmingham City Council have issued an update on the Places for People project (phase 2). I have copied the update below. It can also be found on their website
I welcome the release of the details of Phase 2 measures and am supportive of the revised design, having given some initial feedback concerning access to Moseley Golf Club. I am however disappointed no provision has been made to take into account the potential impact on Boundary Roads. I will continue to ensure community representations are fed back to the council to try to ensure the best possible scheme is implemented for the residents and businesses of Moseley. Cllr Izzy Knowles.

Council Update on Kings Heath & Moseley Places for People project (phase 2) – September 2023

“Places for People in Kings Heath & Moseley aims to reduce traffic in residential neighbourhoods so that it is safer for people to walk, wheel, and cycle and nicer to be outside, for children to play and neighbours to chat.
A first phase of this scheme was delivered in 2020 in the form of temporary measures, which were made permanent in April 2022, with the intention that a second phase would implement a revised area-wide scheme.

The Outline Business Case for this next phase of the Kings Heath & Moseley Places for People project was approved by Cabinet in January 2023. Our specialist delivery team are now overseeing the completion of scheme designs and other points required to progress this to delivery.

Following engagement with residents in Autumn 2022, some minor changes have been made to the final concept design layout ahead of delivery, specifically:

  • the addition of a modal filter at the junction of Yardley Wood Road and St Agnes Road (in
    place of the proposed one-way ‘gyratory’ by St Agnes church)
  • the introduction of a diagonal modal filter (south-west to north-east) at the junction of
    School Road / Greenend Road / Greenhill Road, instead of the existing modal filter on School Road (and in place of the proposed modal filters on School Road and Greenhill Road)
  • making the section of Springfield Road between Addison Road and Institute Road one-way (northbound) along with consideration of any other traffic calming measures required here (as with Billesley Lane)

A revised final concept design for Kings Heath & Moseley Places for People is shown below

An updated delivery programme is now being put in place based on a phased approach, with measures being delivered through separate packages as follows:
1) improvements to phase 1 measures to the west of the High Street – including the York Road pedestrian zone – which already have TROs in place.
2) new measures being introduced as part of phase 2 (to the east of the High Street) which will require new TROs – this includes modal filters, one-way streets, and traffic calming.
3) a 20mph speed limit across the project area, including on ‘boundary’ roads.
4) bus gate on Addison Road and reinstate a right turn from Vicarage Road onto High Street.
Work is underway to complete design work, obtain internal approvals, advertise Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) including statutory consultation, and award construction contracts. Further details, including envisaged timescales, will be shared as available.
Notwithstanding the requirement to comply with any spend restrictions in place in advance of the Council setting out its Financial Recovery Plan, the funding allocated to this scheme comes from grants and income which is ring-fenced for sustainable travel and environmental improvements. This funding was committed by the Council’s Cabinet on 17 January 2023 and due to the nature of the funding, it cannot be used to fund any wider financial pressures across the City Council.“

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A community centre not serving the community.

Notice has been served by planning enforcement officers on the owners and tenants of a premises on Alcester Road near to Edgbaston Road East. The premises, an old factory unit is leased as a community centre, however it is being used almost exclusively for evening pre weddings and parties.
Izzy has received numerous complaints about anti social and obstructive parking, loud music, loud prolonged drumming and fireworks being illegally and dangerously let off in the street. It is not clear if any health and safety or fire safety checks have ever taken place.

Izzy has previously spoken to the organisation leasing the premises and brought the complaints to their attention, however nothing has been done to stop the issues continuing sometimes two or three times a week.

The owner and tenants have until 4th September to appeal the notice. In the event of no appeal being made they will need to cease all activity at the premises after 4th October..

They now have a chance to appeal the decision by planning enforcement and apply to regularise the use of the building as a community centre.

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Public Space Protection Order – Consultation.

The wait for the Moseley & Kings Heath Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to be renewed is almost over:

The previous order expired during Covid and Izzy has been lobbying for it to be renewed ever since. In March this year she provided a statement of evidence to support the extension of the map to cover some hot spot areas and for the seizure of Nitrous Oxide (Nos) to be included in the order. The number of Nos cannisters collected by Moseley Litterbusters helped evidence the need for this. Other residents including Streetwatch members have also provided evidence to support the order and we thank them for their help.

The PSPO is an important tool for use by police and community safety officers to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour in our streets, parks and open spaces within the designated boundaries. This is to address anti social behaviour that includes, but is not limited to, street drinking and associated behaviour, street violence, consumption of intoxicating substances including nitrous gas, large anti social groups gathering and destruction of public property including graffiti.

The order is now subject to a public consultation which ends on 17th September and we encourage you to please complete.

There will be engagement events in Moseley in August for people who are not on line to take part, including at Moseley Farmers Market.

The new PSPO is expected to be live by October.

Take part in the consultation here