Inside the New Foley Arms: £270,000 Makeover Brings Big-Match Atmosphere to Sutton Coldfield

The Foley Arms has reopened following a £270,000 refurbishment, bringing a new sports-focused experience to Sutton Coldfield, complete with giant screens, upgraded sound, refreshed food and drink menus, and a celebration of local sporting achievements.

The popular pub reopened on Tuesday 28 October 2026 as one of Marston’s new Grandstand sports pubs, a concept designed to bring the excitement and atmosphere of major sporting occasions into the local pub.

A Grandstand Experience

The transformation includes multiple large television screens, a state-of-the-art sound system and flexible tiered seating, designed to give customers excellent views of the sporting action.

The beer garden has also received a makeover, with additional screens allowing visitors to enjoy live sport outdoors.

Customers can order food and drinks through Marston’s Order & Pay app, meaning they won’t have to miss a crucial goal, try or winning moment.

From Premier League football and international rugby to Formula 1, cricket, tennis, darts and horse racing, the Foley Arms plans to screen a wide range of major sporting fixtures.

For those who prefer to take part rather than watch, the pub also offers regulation dartboards and pool tables, with competition leagues and free-to-play sessions planned throughout the week.

Celebrating Sutton Coldfield’s Sporting Heritage

One particularly interesting feature of the refurbishment is the pub’s commitment to celebrating local sporting achievements.

The Foley Arms is inviting local sports clubs, teams and individuals to contribute photographs and memorabilia that could be displayed on its walls.

It’s an opportunity to recognise Sutton Coldfield’s sporting heritage, from grassroots clubs and community teams to the achievements of local sporting personalities.

Local teams can also enquire about the pub’s new Black Card, offering bottomless fries during team visits and additional rewards following a win.

A Fresh Food and Drink Offering

The refurbishment brings an updated menu featuring traditional pub favourites alongside lighter bites suitable for sharing while watching the action.

Customers can choose from dishes including chicken wings, nachos, fish and chips, burgers and grills.

The drinks range has also been refreshed, with draught beers available in two-pint cups.

A Community Celebration

The reopening was officially marked by Councillor Alan Fleming, Mayor of Walsall, who pulled the first pint as the pub’s Community Hero.

Having grown up in Streetly, Councillor Fleming has longstanding connections with the local area.

Marston’s selected the Foley Arms for its Grandstand transformation in recognition of its links with local sports teams, community organisations and charities.

Shaun Hayes, Marston’s Operations Manager, said:

“We’re so excited to show off the new and improved pub!”

He added that the new technology, food and drink offers and events would help create a big-event atmosphere for customers.

More Than Just Match Day

While live sport is central to the new Grandstand concept, the Foley Arms is also positioning itself as a place for friends, families, local clubs and community groups to meet and socialise.

With its refurbished surroundings, new facilities and continuing community connections, the pub hopes to welcome both regular customers and new visitors.

The Foley Arms reopened on 28 October 2026.

For further information, upcoming sporting fixtures or table bookings, visit:

https://www.foleyarmspub.co.uk/

Are you involved with a local sports club? Why not get in touch with the Foley Arms about contributing photographs or memorabilia to help celebrate Sutton Coldfield’s sporting history?

Shows the new seating arrangement and large screen. Perfect for the Grandstand Experience section.

The Mayor pulling a pint alongside a member of the pub team.

The exterior showing the Foley Arms signage and reopening decorations

“Images courtesy of Marston’s / The Foley Arms”

Popular Sutton Coldfield pub ASH closes for £200,000 refurbishment

Popular Birmingham Road venue set to reopen on Thursday 12 November under new ownership.

A popular Sutton Coldfield pub is preparing for a fresh new chapter following the announcement of a £200,000 refurbishment.

ASH, located on Birmingham Road in the heart of Sutton Coldfield, has been acquired by Valiant Pub Company and temporarily closed its doors on Monday 26 October.

The refurbishment will give the venue a refreshed appearance, with customers expected to be welcomed back on Thursday 12 November 2026.

A familiar name with a fresh new look

Regular customers will be pleased to hear that the ASH name is staying, along with the food offering that has helped establish the venue as a popular local dining destination.

The investment marks another development in Sutton Coldfield’s hospitality scene, bringing new ownership and a substantial refurbishment to the town centre.

Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID welcomed the announcement and expressed enthusiasm for the venue’s next chapter.

Reopening in November

With work now underway, local residents won’t have too long to wait before they can return to the refurbished pub.

ASH Sutton Coldfield

8 Birmingham Road, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1QD

Expected reopening: Thursday 12 November 2026

Keep following What’s On in My Town for more local business news and developments across Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth.

Marks & Spencer launches recruitment drive for new Lichfield distribution centre

Major investment expected to bring around 600 jobs to the area as new automated facility prepares for 2027 opening.

Marks & Spencer has begun recruiting staff for its major new distribution centre in Lichfield, marking another important step in the retailer’s investment in the area.

The new 437,000 sq ft automated facility will support M&S’s fashion operations, with approximately 600 jobs expected to be created when the centre becomes fully operational in 2027.

More than 70 vacancies are already being advertised, offering opportunities for local people to become part of the new operation ahead of its opening.

The development represents a significant boost for Lichfield’s local economy, bringing employment opportunities and further investment to the area.

Alongside the distribution centre, Marks & Spencer is also developing a new foodhall in Lichfield, which is expected to create approximately 70 additional jobs.

With recruitment now underway, the project is moving closer to becoming a major new employer in the district.

Looking for a new opportunity? Anyone interested in working for Marks & Spencer can explore current vacancies through the company’s official careers website.

What’s On in My Town – Bringing you the latest business and community news from Lichfield and the surrounding area.

Sutton Coldfield Residents Invited to Have Their Say on £25 Million Gateway Scheme

Residents and businesses in Sutton Coldfield are being invited to help shape the future of the town centre as a major public consultation gets underway.

The Royal Sutton Coldfield Gateway Scheme aims to improve transport connections, pedestrian access and cycling routes throughout the town centre.

The project forms part of wider ambitions to regenerate Sutton Coldfield, making it easier for people to move between the railway station, bus interchange, shopping areas and Sutton Park.

A public consultation opened on Thursday 22 October and will remain open until 3 December 2026.

What is the Gateway Scheme?

The project is supported by £25 million in government transport funding secured in 2022.

It is being developed by Birmingham City Council, working alongside Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, Transport for the West Midlands and other partners.

The proposals focus on improving access around the town centre, particularly where the existing ring road creates barriers for pedestrians and cyclists.

They also aim to improve public transport facilities and create a more welcoming environment for shoppers, visitors and businesses.

What changes are being proposed?

The consultation includes several significant proposals.

Park Road: Plans include making Park Road one-way eastbound towards Brassington Avenue and introducing a dedicated cycle route connecting Sutton Park with the town centre.

Station Street: Proposals include improved pedestrian and cycle crossings, alongside a new public square outside Sutton Coldfield railway station.

The Parade: Plans include improvements to bus stops, pedestrian crossings and public spaces.

Victoria Road: A segregated cycle route is proposed, together with changes to road junctions and crossing facilities.

Brassington Avenue: The proposals include a two-way cycleway, changes to parking arrangements and an additional crossing providing access towards the new Aldi.

A reduction in the ring road speed limit to 20mph is also proposed.

These are consultation proposals rather than approved final designs.

Residents can view the plans

Detailed drawings, computer-generated images and information about the proposed changes are available through the official consultation website.

Residents can submit comments online until 3 December.

Three public drop-in sessions are also planned at Sutton Coldfield United Reformed Church, 1 Brassington Avenue.

The confirmed dates are:

Thursday 12 November
Wednesday 18 November
Saturday 21 November

Members of the project team will be available to explain the proposals and answer questions.

An important opportunity for Sutton Coldfield

The Gateway Scheme could significantly change how people travel around the town centre.

For residents, the consultation offers an opportunity to raise questions about traffic, parking, accessibility and the proposed improvements.

Local businesses can also contribute their views on how the changes might affect customers, deliveries and access to commercial premises.

Feedback will be considered before detailed designs are finalised.

With proposals affecting several important roads and public spaces, residents are encouraged to examine the plans carefully and make their views known.

The consultation closes on Thursday 3 December 2026.

St Giles Hospice Fundraiser Represents West Midlands at Pride of Britain Awards

A remarkable fundraiser who dribbled a football more than 2,000 miles from Morocco to the Midlands has represented the West Midlands at the prestigious Pride of Britain Awards.

Football coach James Lewis attended the national ceremony in London after being named the region’s Fundraiser of the Year.

His extraordinary fundraising achievements have helped raise more than £129,000 for St Giles Hospice, making him the charity’s biggest individual fundraiser.

An incredible journey for St Giles

James completed an 86-day challenge, travelling from Morocco to the Midlands while dribbling a football.

The journey was undertaken in memory of his father, who received care from St Giles Hospice when James was just 11 years old.

The challenge attracted considerable attention and support, helping James raise substantial funds for the hospice.

His fundraising page has now reached £75,680 for the challenge alone, while his lifetime fundraising total has exceeded £129,000.

The achievement earned him the West Midlands Fundraiser of the Year title in September and a place among 17 finalists competing for the national award.

Representing the region in London

James attended the Pride of Britain Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House in London, accompanied by St Giles Hospice events manager Sam Colclough.

Although the overall Fundraiser of the Year award went to 85-year-old Barry Walden from Hull, James’s selection among the national finalists was a significant recognition of his dedication.

Barry received the national honour in recognition of 65 years spent raising money for charities through his singing.

For James, the evening provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of fundraisers from across the country.

A proud moment for St Giles Hospice

St Giles Hospice Chief Executive Elinor Eustace welcomed James’s achievement and the recognition it brought to the charity.

His fundraising has made a substantial contribution to the hospice, which provides specialist care and support to people and families facing serious illness.

The challenge has also inspired young people, with James sharing his experiences in schools.

His determination, commitment and willingness to undertake such an extraordinary journey have made him an outstanding ambassador for the charity.

Pride of Britain television broadcast

The Pride of Britain Awards ceremony will be shown on ITV1 and ITVX on Thursday 22 October 2026 at 8pm.

For supporters of St Giles Hospice, it will be another opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of a fundraiser whose efforts have made such a difference.

James may not have taken home the overall national award, but his journey from Morocco to the Midlands has already secured something equally important: lasting support and recognition for a charity close to his heart.

Lichfield Karting Star Finlay Lines Secures International Success in Belgium

A talented young racing driver from Lichfield is celebrating a remarkable achievement after finishing runner-up in the 2026 BNL Karting Series.

Finlay Lines completed his championship campaign in style at Karting Genk in Belgium, taking overall victory during the final weekend and securing second place in the championship standings.

The result means the young driver finishes the season as BNL Junior Max vice-champion.

A successful end to the championship

Finlay arrived at the final round holding second place in the Junior Max standings, with the championship still to be decided.

Facing competition from international drivers, he produced an impressive performance to secure the overall weekend victory.

Although the championship title remained out of reach, finishing as vice-champion represents a significant achievement in a competitive international series.

The result is also an important milestone in his developing motorsport career.

Representing Team UK in Portugal

Finlay’s performance has earned him a place at the 2026 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Portimão, Portugal.

He will represent Team UK at the international event in November, competing against talented karting drivers from around the world.

The opportunity represents another important step for the Lichfield racer, whose achievements are attracting attention beyond the local motorsport scene.

A proud achievement for Lichfield

Karting provides an important pathway into competitive motorsport, requiring considerable skill, determination and commitment.

Finlay’s latest success demonstrates the opportunities available to talented young drivers willing to compete at an international level.

With a championship runner-up finish secured and another major competition approaching, the young Lichfield driver has plenty to look forward to.

His next challenge will be representing Team UK in Portugal as he continues his motorsport journey.

Tamworth’s FA Cup Run Ends at Carlisle

Tamworth FC Exit FA Cup Following Narrow Defeat at Carlisle United

Tamworth FC’s hopes of progressing in this season’s FA Cup came to an end on Saturday 17 October 2026 following a 2–1 defeat away to Carlisle United.

The Lambs travelled to Brunton Park for their fourth qualifying round encounter but found themselves facing an uphill battle after conceding twice during the first half.

Difficult opening period

Carlisle made an early breakthrough when Regan Linney scored in the sixth minute.

The home side doubled their advantage shortly before half-time, with Linney finding the net again.

Tamworth therefore went into the interval trailing 2–0.

Second-half response

The visitors responded quickly after the restart.

R. Calder scored in the 48th minute to reduce the deficit and give Tamworth renewed hope of a comeback.

However, despite their efforts, the Lambs were unable to find an equaliser.

Carlisle held on to secure a 2–1 victory and progress to the next round of the competition.

Focus returns to the league

The result brings Tamworth’s FA Cup campaign to an end for another season.

Attention now returns to the club’s National League programme as the team looks to improve its position in the competition.

The Lambs are scheduled to travel to Gateshead on Friday 23 October before returning to The Lamb Ground for a home fixture against Scunthorpe United on Tuesday 27 October.

Supporters can follow club announcements for further match information.

Petrol Station Approved at Former Canwell Caravan Site

Plans Approved for New Petrol Station at Former Canwell Caravan Sales Site

Plans to transform a former caravan sales site at Canwell into a petrol station have been approved by Lichfield District Council despite objections from nearby residents.

The development will occupy the former Canwell Caravans Ltd site on London Road.

The approved proposals include a petrol filling station, car wash facilities and drive-through jet wash bays.

A change of use for the site

According to documents submitted with the application, the land previously operated as a petrol station before being converted to caravan sales.

The new development will use existing access arrangements from London Road.

However, the proposals attracted objections from residents concerned about the potential impact on the surrounding area.

Concerns over traffic and lighting

Objectors questioned whether the proposed development would generate significantly more traffic than the former caravan showroom.

Concerns were also raised about external lighting, the size of the proposed structures and the possible effects of additional activity on nearby homes.

One issue considered during the planning process was the site’s location within the Green Belt.

Council considers impact

Planning officers acknowledged that the proposed petrol station would represent a more intensive use of the land.

They also recognised that additional lighting, vehicle movements and new structures would have some effect on the site’s appearance.

However, officers concluded that the impact would be limited by the site’s existing developed character and the fact that the proposals remained within previously developed land.

The application was therefore approved.

Proposed opening hours

The application documents indicate that the petrol station would operate between 6am and midnight.

The jet wash facilities would operate between 8am and 8pm.

No confirmed construction timetable or opening date has been established from the published report.

Residents wishing to examine the approved proposals can access the planning documents through Lichfield District Council.

Police Report Burglaries and Vehicle Thefts in Four Oaks

Four Oaks Police Issue Community Safety Update Following Burglaries and Vehicle Thefts

Police in Sutton Coldfield have reported several residential burglaries and vehicle thefts as part of their latest neighbourhood update covering Four Oaks, Mere Green and Harvest Fields.

The Four Oaks Neighbourhood Team has also been carrying out patrols in local shopping areas, parks and residential streets following reports of anti-social behaviour.

The update, published on Saturday 17 October, highlights recent incidents and offers practical advice to help residents protect their homes and vehicles.

Burglaries reported in Four Oaks

Three incidents were recorded between 6 and 14 October.

On Lichfield Road, offenders gained access to a property through a side door during the early hours of 6 October. They were disturbed before anything was stolen.

A second burglary occurred on Heathfield Road between 9 and 11 October, when entry was gained through an insecure rear door and a handbag was stolen.

A further incident took place on Harvest Fields Way between 13 and 14 October. Offenders attempted to force a door lock but were unsuccessful.

Vehicles targeted

Police also reported the theft of two vehicles.

A bronze Lexus was stolen from Worcester Lane on 10 October, while a red Jaguar was taken from Ethlered Close between 9 and 10 October.

Officers are reminding owners of keyless-entry vehicles to consider using Faraday pouches to protect their keys against signal interception.

Steering-wheel locks can also provide an additional visible deterrent.

Patrols and community engagement

Neighbourhood officers have been conducting patrols around Mere Green’s retail areas, Hill Hook Nature Reserve and Badgers Bank Road.

Two people were spoken to following anti-social behaviour concerns on Badgers Bank Road, with the incidents reported to the relevant housing association.

Police have also been visiting schools to address inconsiderate parking, particularly around entrances where obstructed pavements and vehicles parked on restrictions can create difficulties for children and parents.

Volunteers wanted

The neighbourhood team is encouraging residents to get involved in local Street Watch groups.

Volunteers are particularly sought for patrols around Hill Village Road, Dunton Close and the Harvest Fields estate.

Residents interested in participating can contact their local neighbourhood policing team.

Further crime prevention information is available through West Midlands Police.

The latest update provides a reminder of the importance of reporting suspicious activity and taking sensible precautions to protect homes, vehicles and neighbourhoods.

Free Halloween Spookfest Takes Over Tamworth’s Ankerside Shopping Centre Today

Halloween celebrations are getting underway in Tamworth today, Saturday 17 October 2026, as Darkside Markets brings its Spookfest event to Ankerside Shopping Centre.

The free event runs from 9am until 5pm, offering visitors the chance to explore an unusual collection of independent traders and Halloween-inspired products.

More than 30 alternative traders from across the Midlands and beyond are expected to take part.

A celebration of everything spooky

Spookfest promises a shopping experience with a difference, celebrating gothic styles, unusual handmade creations and the more imaginative side of Halloween.

Visitors can browse stalls offering distinctive products that may not be found in conventional high street shops.

The market is designed to appeal to fans of alternative fashion, gothic culture and Halloween-themed merchandise.

Supporting independent traders

The event also provides an opportunity to discover small independent businesses and creative makers.

Markets such as Spookfest offer traders a chance to introduce their products to new customers while bringing additional activity into the town centre.

With free admission, the event is accessible to anyone interested in browsing the stalls.

Event details

Date: Saturday 17 October 2026
Time: 9am–5pm
Venue: Ankerside Shopping Centre, George Street, Tamworth, B79 7LG
Admission: Free

Visitors can find further details through the Ankerside Shopping Centre website.