Morning everyone,
A huge weekend of events ahead including England's final match of the World Cup, plus some fantastic local live music and community charity events.
But first — the local traffic situation is looking incredibly heavy this week. Here are the locations most likely to cause delays over the coming week.
🚨 Critical Traffic Warnings
Newton Road & College Road Delays:
Newton Road (July 16–18): Openreach lane closure right outside the junctions for Pages Lane and Meadowside Close. Knock-on delays expected heading down towards Asda.
College Road (July 22–25): Lane closure for LED upgrades spanning from Aldridge Road to Warren Road, specifically impacting the busy junction by the Spar and Kingstanding Road.
Booths Farm Road Closures:
Booths Farm Road (July 24): Full road closure planned for tree felling operations outside house numbers 36/38, 121/123, and 131/133. Diversions will be in place affecting Heston Avenue.
🚧 Ongoing Local Disruptions
Hamstead Hill: National Grid multi-way signals (July 13–21) in progress right at the corner of Park Hill Drive, next to the Elmwood United Reformed Church. Expect tailbacks.
📰 Local News
Meet David Baldacci Live (Wednesday 22 July): Internationally bestselling author David Baldacci is doing a live talk and exclusive book signing at West Bromwich Town Hall as part of the National Year of Reading.
Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival (Starts Thursday 23 July): Sandwell is hosting a programme of FREE live music at local libraries and the Valley Visitor Centre.
Safer 6 Campaign Wraps Up: The final week of the Safer 6 campaign concludes in Smethwick this weekend, bringing free CPR training, police pop-ups, and youth sports sessions to the community.
💛 Community Spotlight: Pretty in Pink Garden Party This Sunday
Looking to support a fantastic cause this weekend?
Lightwoods Park and House is hosting a special adults-only (18+) Pretty in Pink Garden Party this Sunday, July 19.
The afternoon will feature a delightful afternoon tea, live entertainment in the beautiful Shakespeare Garden, and a charity raffle. It’s all in support of Let’s Talk Hope and Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer. Make sure to wear your best pink outfit—there’s a prize for the most fabulous attire!
🎉 What's On This Weekend
Free Live Music (West Bromwich Indoor Market): Friday July 17, 7pm–9pm. Grab a cool beer, enjoy street food, and listen to live music from Get Loose.
World Cup Third-Place Play-off (England vs France): Saturday July 18. Following Wednesday's 2-1 semi-final heartbreak against Argentina, the Three Lions take on France in Miami. Kick-off is at 10pm UK time. Get behind the boys one last time!
Free CPR & Bleed Control Training: Saturday July 18. Hosted at local gurdwaras as part of the Safer 6 finale.
Pretty in Pink Garden Party (Lightwoods Park): Sunday July 19. Adults-only charity afternoon tea and entertainment.
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Drive safe,
Great Barr Insider