Councillor Grinsall (left) and Councillor Qais (right) with young people, youth workers and representatives from Crabtree Hall
Funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Solihull Council has provided over £450k to improve facilities and foster a stronger sense of community for Solihull residents.
Renovations to nine buildings, including improvements to youth spaces, community areas, kitchen facilities, a new music studio, roofing, car parks and toilets, have been made possible through Solihull’s allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This includes grants awarded through the Solihull Community Buildings Fund, delivered via the Heart of England Community Foundation.
Solihull Council estimates the changes will benefit over 20,000 people, including attendees of community groups at Crabtree Hall, Auckland Hall, Hatchford Brook, Solihull Lodge, Shirley Centre, Solihull Indoor Bowls Centre, Three Trees Community Centre, Balsall Common Methodist Church and Meriden Adventure Playground.
Crabtree Hall hosts Urban Heard, a youth organisation dedicated to empowering young people through mentoring, gaining skills, paid employment opportunities, and peer-led support to help them succeed in life.
Rowan Mackenzie, Operations Manager at Urban Heard, said:
“The funding is transformative for our young people, the improvements to Crabtree Hall have created a more functional, welcoming and inspiring environment where young people want to spend time. It’s a hub of opportunity, growth and belonging.”
Councillor Wazma Qais, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said:
“This project is about more than buildings, it’s about people. We’re proud to be supporting projects that build stronger and more resilient communities.
“By improving these spaces, we’re facilitating opportunities for individuals to gather, build relationships and provide mutual support in meaningful ways. These upgraded facilities will serve as safe, inclusive, and vibrant environments that promote social connection, contribute to residents’ wellbeing and strengthen the fabric of the community.
“We’re so pleased to see the positive impact the fund has had. Not just at Crabtree Hall, but across eight other buildings that hold their communities at the heart of their foundations. It’s a real example of how targeted investment can drive positive community impact.”
Councillor Karen Grinsell, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Deputy Leader of Solihull Council, said:
“This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to children, young people, and families across Solihull. By enhancing the spaces where they gather, learn and grow, we are helping to create a borough where everyone can thrive.
“We’re committed to creating positive environments for our young people. These projects are a powerful reminder of how vital our community spaces are in supporting families and helping young people thrive.”
The funding underscores Solihull Council’s dedication to fostering vibrant local communities, where people are supported and empowered to lead fulfilling lives.
Community organisations and charities are encouraged to look out for future funding from Solihull Council and the Heart of England Community Foundation, who continue to support grassroots initiatives that bring lasting benefit to Solihull’s residents.