Lichfield City Centre Bucks National Trend as Shop Vacancies Fall by More Than a Third

Lichfield city centre is showing encouraging signs of resilience, with newly publicised figures revealing that the number of empty retail premises has fallen by more than a third since 2021.

Figures released by Lichfield District Council show that just 16 of the city’s 311 retail premises were vacant in June 2025, compared with 25 in April 2021.

That represents a vacancy rate of approximately 5%, significantly below the national high street average of 13.5% quoted by the council.

The findings offer encouraging news for local traders at a time when many British town and city centres continue to face challenges from changing shopping habits and competition from online retailers.

Investment in Lichfield’s future

Lichfield District Council leader Councillor Doug Pullen has welcomed the figures, pointing to investment in the city centre and improvements to public spaces as important parts of the council’s approach.

The authority believes its ongoing regeneration programme is helping make Lichfield an attractive destination for businesses, residents and visitors.

The planned Everyman cinema development is also expected to strengthen the city’s leisure and entertainment offering.

By providing additional reasons for people to visit the centre, the council hopes to support existing retailers, restaurants and hospitality businesses.

Supporting local businesses

Independent shops, established retailers, cafés and restaurants all contribute to Lichfield’s distinctive character.

The vacancy figures provide a positive indication of the city’s retail position, although they represent a snapshot from June 2025 rather than a current count of occupied premises.

The council has also indicated that its regeneration ambitions extend beyond Lichfield, with £1.2 million earmarked for improvements in Burntwood.

For Lichfield’s businesses, the latest report offers an encouraging reminder of the importance of a thriving and attractive city centre.

Image – Lichfield Live

Spectacular Winter Light Experience Coming to The Belfry This Christmas

A magical new illuminated Christmas experience is coming to The Belfry Hotel & Resort near Sutton Coldfield, promising families an enchanting evening of festive lights, interactive entertainment and seasonal surprises.

The Winter Light Experience opens on Friday 27 November 2026 and continues until Saturday 2 January 2027, with the attraction closed on Christmas Day.

The event will transform part of The Belfry’s famous Brabazon golf course into a spectacular illuminated trail featuring more than 30 installations.

Visitors will follow a route stretching over a mile, with the experience expected to take approximately 60 to 90 minutes.

A Christmas mystery to solve

The attraction follows a festive storyline in which Santa has accidentally scattered Christmas magic after an unexpected landing.

Families will be invited to search for clues and help recover the missing magic as they make their way through the illuminated displays.

Along the route, visitors can expect interactive features, games and characters bringing the Christmas adventure to life.

Festive food and winter treats

A Christmas Courtyard will provide a place to enjoy seasonal food and drinks before or after exploring the trail.

Entry to the courtyard itself will be free.

Visitors will also find opportunities to toast marshmallows beside fire pits, while heated winter cabins will be available to book separately.

Something for the whole family

The organisers have also planned quieter sensory sessions on 30 November and 8 December, offering an alternative experience for visitors who prefer reduced sound levels and smaller crowds.

Selected evenings will welcome dogs, while guide dogs will be permitted throughout the event.

Tickets and dates

The Winter Light Experience opens on Friday 27 November, with a special preview evening offering reduced admission prices.

Standard tickets start at £18.50 for adults and £12.50 for children aged three to 15.

Family tickets for two adults and two children start at £57.25, while children under three can attend free of charge.

Prices vary depending on the date and session selected.

The event runs daily during its advertised operating period, except Christmas Day.

For tickets and full information, visit the official Winter Light Experience website.

Sutton Santa Run 2026 Seeks Local Business Support for Christmas Charity Fundraiser

Businesses across Sutton Coldfield are being invited to support this year’s Sutton Santa Run, which will raise money for two local mental health charities.

The popular festive fundraising event returns to Sutton Park on Sunday 6 December 2026, bringing together runners, walkers, families and local businesses for a Christmas-themed 5K.

Organised by SE Fitness Running & Walking Club, the event will start at Town Gate at 10am.

Now in its third year, the Sutton Santa Run will raise funds for Acacia Family Support and Our Place Support, two organisations providing important support to people and families experiencing mental health difficulties.

Last year’s event raised almost £6,000 for the charities, and organisers are hoping to build on that success in 2026.

Local businesses invited to get involved

The organisers are particularly keen to encourage businesses across Sutton Coldfield to support the event through sponsorship.

Opportunities start at £100, making it possible for businesses of different sizes to participate.

Companies can also encourage staff members to join the run, bringing colleagues together for a festive activity while supporting worthwhile local causes.

The event has particular significance for Acacia Family Support, which has been selected as the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce’s charity of the year for 2026–2028.

A festive event for everyone

The Sutton Santa Run welcomes participants of different ages and abilities, whether they prefer running, jogging or walking.

Christmas fancy dress is encouraged, with prizes planned for the best-dressed individual and family.

The event offers an opportunity to enjoy Sutton Park during the festive season while helping two charities continue their work in the local community.

Event information

Date: Sunday 6 December 2026
Time: 10am
Venue: Sutton Park, Town Gate, Sutton Coldfield
Distance: 5K
Charities: Acacia Family Support and Our Place Support

Businesses interested in sponsorship can contact Kate Davarzadeh at Acacia Family Support.

Further event information and participant booking are available through the SE Fitness website.

Tamworth Assembly Rooms Announces Assembly Amplified Music Programme

Live music fans in Tamworth have plenty to look forward to following the announcement of Assembly Amplified, a new programme of standing concerts at Tamworth Assembly Rooms.

The venue is preparing to welcome a wide range of tribute bands and music acts, with performances celebrating everything from classic rock and indie to reggae, Northern Soul and the sounds of the 1980s.

Assembly Amplified is designed to bring the atmosphere of a live gig to the historic venue, allowing audiences to enjoy music in a standing concert setting.

The programme begins on Friday 13 November 2026 with Jilted Generation, a tribute to The Prodigy.

Allstar Reggae follows on Friday 20 November, before Kick Up the 80’s takes to the stage on Saturday 21 November.

The month’s programme concludes with Foo Fighters GB on Saturday 28 November.

Looking further ahead, the series continues into 2027 with performances celebrating artists including The Smiths, Oasis, The Stone Roses, Stereophonics, AC/DC and The Cure.

Selected performances will also offer limited balcony seating for those who prefer not to stand.

The announcement adds another dimension to Tamworth’s growing live entertainment programme, giving music fans opportunities to experience familiar songs in an energetic concert atmosphere without travelling further afield.

Tickets for the November performances are available through Tamworth Assembly Rooms, with prices beginning at £18.50 for Jilted Generation.

Visitors are encouraged to check individual show details, including performance times, ticket prices and seating arrangements, before booking.

Plans Submitted for 300 More Homes at Arkall Farm

Plans have been submitted that could see an additional 300 homes built at the Arkall Farm development on the border between Lichfield and Tamworth.

The latest planning application proposes increasing the total number of homes permitted on the site from 1,000 to 1,300.

The development, situated north of Ashby Road, has been progressing since 2021, with approximately 315 properties expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

According to the planning documents, the proposed increase would be achieved through changes to the existing development layout rather than extending the approved site boundaries.

Part of the land originally reserved for a new primary school would instead be used for housing.

The applicant states that the local education authority has confirmed the full area previously allocated for the school is no longer required.

The proposals also include increasing housing density within part of a later development phase.

The application comes as Lichfield District continues to face pressure to deliver additional housing.

Planning documents submitted in support of the scheme argue that the additional properties would contribute towards meeting the district’s housing requirements.

However, the proposals remain subject to the planning process, and submission of an application does not mean permission has been granted.

Residents wishing to examine the proposals can access the relevant documents through Lichfield District Council’s planning system.

Image from Lichfield Live

Lichfield Santa Sleigh Fundraiser Opens Applications to Local Charities

Local charities and community organisations are being invited to take part in one of Lichfield’s much-loved Christmas traditions as preparations begin for the annual Santa Sleigh fundraiser.

Organised by Lichfield Round Table, the popular festive initiative sees Father Christmas travel through local streets during December, bringing seasonal cheer to families while raising money for worthwhile causes.

Each evening, representatives from participating charities and community groups accompany Santa’s sleigh, helping collect donations and promote the work of local organisations.

Applications to participate open today, Friday 16 October 2026.

The Santa Sleigh has become a familiar part of Christmas in Lichfield, combining festive entertainment with practical support for the local community.

For participating organisations, the initiative provides an opportunity to raise funds, meet residents and increase awareness of their work.

The annual event also depends on volunteers who give their time throughout the Christmas period.

Local charities, voluntary organisations and not-for-profit groups interested in participating are encouraged to follow Lichfield Round Table’s announcements.

Further details about the application process will be published through the organisation’s Facebook page.

Photograph Courtesy of Lichfield Live

World Singing Day 2026

World Singing Day 2026: Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth Raise Their Voices!

Saturday 17 October 2026

Music has a wonderful ability to bring people together, lift spirits and create lasting memories. This Saturday, 17 October, communities around the world will celebrate World Singing Day 2026, and there’s plenty of musical entertainment to enjoy across Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth.

From traditional male voice choirs and community singing to pop classics and spectacular live performances, there’s something for almost every musical taste.

What is World Singing Day?

World Singing Day is an annual global celebration of singing, bringing people together through the simple pleasure of making music.

The occasion encourages everyone to participate, regardless of age, background or musical ability.

You don’t need to be a professional singer, belong to a choir or even consider yourself particularly musical. World Singing Day is about enjoying music, sharing experiences and celebrating the connections that singing creates.

And across our three local areas, Saturday promises to be a particularly musical occasion.

🎵 Sutton Coldfield: Birmingham Male Voice Choir Autumn Concert

St Columba’s Church, Banners Gate Road, Sutton Coldfield

Saturday 17 October | 7pm–8.30pm

One of the region’s established male voice choirs will be performing in Sutton Coldfield on Saturday evening.

Birmingham Male Voice Choir brings together singers who share a love of music, friendship and performing.

The choir’s repertoire includes traditional favourites, popular songs, show tunes and uplifting arrangements performed in four-part harmony.

Its Autumn Concert at St Columba’s promises an enjoyable evening for anyone who appreciates the distinctive sound of male voice choral singing.

Further information: Birmingham Male Voice Choir’s official website.

🎵 Tamworth: Everybody Sings! Choir and City of Lichfield Concert Band

The Coton Centre, Comberford Road, Tamworth

Saturday 17 October | 7.30pm–9.30pm

Tickets: Adults £12.50 | Children £5

A wonderful example of community music-making takes place in Tamworth when Everybody Sings! Choir joins forces with the City of Lichfield Concert Band.

The concert will feature a varied programme of popular music, combining the voices of a welcoming community choir with the instrumental talents of an award-winning concert band.

Everybody Sings! embraces a simple philosophy: singing is for everyone, whether you believe you can sing or not.

Meanwhile, the City of Lichfield Concert Band is a 50-piece community ensemble with an impressive record of performances across Staffordshire and the West Midlands.

Together, they promise an entertaining evening celebrating the enjoyment of making music.

Booking: Citizen Ticket.

🎵 Tamworth: Tamworth Young Musicians 2026

St Editha’s Church, Tamworth

Saturday 17 October | 7pm

Young musical talent will also take centre stage in Tamworth this Saturday.

Following the success of its 2025 event, Tamworth Young Musicians returns for 2026, showcasing musical performances by talented children and young people.

The event provides another opportunity to celebrate local music-making while supporting the next generation of performers.

Tickets are advertised from £3.

🎵 Lichfield: Tunde of Lighthouse Family at Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Cathedral

Saturday 17 October | Performance advertised from 7.45pm

The magnificent surroundings of Lichfield Cathedral will welcome Tunde Baiyewu, the unmistakable voice of Lighthouse Family.

Known for the group’s much-loved hits, including Lifted, Ocean Drive and High, Tunde brings his distinctive soulful vocals to one of Staffordshire’s most spectacular venues.

Performing with a full band, this promises to be a memorable evening for fans of soulful pop music.

Booking: Eventim and authorised ticket outlets.

🎵 Lichfield: 80’s Mania at the Garrick

Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Saturday 17 October | 7.30pm

Tickets: £34

For those who prefer their singing accompanied by a little dancing and nostalgia, 80’s Mania arrives at the Lichfield Garrick.

This energetic musical spectacular celebrates some of the biggest hits of the 1980s, featuring tributes to artists including Duran Duran, Madonna, Wham!, Culture Club, Kim Wilde and Bananarama.

With a live band, dancers and more than 35 chart-topping hits, audiences can look forward to an evening packed with familiar favourites.

🎤 Why Not Join a Choir?

World Singing Day isn’t just about watching other people perform.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to consider joining a local choir or singing group.

Community choirs offer opportunities to meet new people, develop musical confidence and enjoy performing together.

Whether your musical tastes lean towards classical, musical theatre, gospel or contemporary pop, there are singing groups catering for a wide variety of interests and abilities.

And remember, you don’t necessarily need any previous singing experience to get involved.

Let the Music Bring Us Together!

Whether you’re attending a concert, singing along to your favourite songs at home or considering joining a choir for the first time, World Singing Day is an opportunity to celebrate something that connects us all.

So this Saturday, why not turn up the music, sing your favourite song and join people around the world in celebrating the joy of singing?

Happy World Singing Day from What’s On In Sutton Coldfield, incorporating What’s On In Lichfield and What’s On In Tamworth!

Please note: The concerts featured are taking place on World Singing Day but are not necessarily officially affiliated with the international celebration. Event information and ticket availability may change.

🎟️ Event links for the article

£270,000 Transformation for Sutton Coldfield’s Foley Arms as New Grandstand Sports Pub Prepares to Open

The Foley Arms in Sutton Coldfield is undergoing a £270,000 refurbishment as it prepares to reopen on Wednesday 28 October 2026 with a completely new look and an exciting sports-focused experience.

The popular community pub, which temporarily closed on 5 October, is being transformed into one of Marston’s new Grandstand sports pubs, designed to bring the atmosphere of a major sporting event into the heart of the local community.

A Stadium-Style Experience

The refurbishment will introduce multiple large television screens, a state-of-the-art immersive sound system and flexible tiered seating, giving customers excellent views of the sporting action.

The pub’s beer garden is also receiving a makeover, complete with outdoor screens, while customers will be able to order food and drinks through the Marston’s Order & Pay app without missing a moment of their favourite sporting events.

Once reopened, the Foley Arms will screen a wide variety of sports, including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, Formula One, darts and horse racing.

Pool tables and regulation dartboards will also return, with plans for competitive leagues and free-to-play sessions.

Celebrating Sutton Coldfield’s Sporting Heritage

One particularly interesting feature of the transformation is the pub’s plan to decorate its walls with memorabilia celebrating local sporting achievements.

The Foley Arms is inviting local sports clubs, teams and residents to contribute photographs and memorabilia highlighting Sutton Coldfield’s sporting stars and memorable moments, both past and present.

General Manager Kassidy Lees said:

“We will have some amazing new technology, food and drink offers and events, and we want as many local people to be featured on our walls as possible. We can’t wait to welcome all our regulars and some new faces in, to see the new and improved Foley Arms.”

The initiative offers an opportunity for local sports clubs to see their achievements recognised and celebrated within the community.

New Match Day Food and Drinks

Alongside the refurbishment, the Foley Arms will introduce a new food offering designed for sports fans and groups of friends.

Its Match Day Menu will feature favourites including chicken wings, nachos, steak and ale pie, burgers and grills.

The drinks selection is also being refreshed, with draught beers available in two-pint cups.

Local sports teams will be able to apply for a special Black Card, offering exclusive benefits, rewards for celebrating victories and unlimited chips on team nights.

A New Chapter for a Community Favourite

Marston’s says the Foley Arms was selected for its Grandstand transformation because of its established connections with local sports teams, community organisations and charities.

The company hopes the investment will strengthen the pub’s position as a meeting place for local residents while attracting sports enthusiasts from across Sutton Coldfield and the surrounding area.

With its reopening scheduled for Wednesday 28 October, the Foley Arms is preparing to welcome regular customers and new visitors to experience its transformed surroundings.

Reopening Details

Venue: The Foley Arms, Sutton Coldfield

Reopening date: Wednesday 28 October 2026

Investment: £270,000

New concept: Marston’s Grandstand Sports Pub

Website and bookings: www.foleyarmspub.co.uk

Source: Press release supplied by Marston’s / Foley Arms.

What’s On in Sutton Coldfield, incorporating What’s On in Lichfield & Tamworth.

Images: Courtesy of Marston’s. Representative photographs of the Grandstand sports pub concept; not the refurbished Foley Arms.

Murder Investigation Launched Following Fatal Stabbing in Sutton Coldfield

West Midlands Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in his twenties after a stabbing in Sutton Coldfield.

Emergency services were called to the car park of the Beggars Bush pub on Chester Road shortly before 2am on Sunday 11 October 2026.

Despite efforts to save him, the man sadly died.

Detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time or who may have CCTV, dashcam or mobile-phone footage that could assist their enquiries.

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Midlands Police, quoting log 345 of 11 October 2026.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this difficult time.

Source: West Midlands Police

Photo credit: Beggars Bush / Official Website.

Buck’s Bridge: A New Chapter in the Restoration of Lichfield Canal

A new lift bridge on the Lichfield Canal has officially been named in honour of the man who helped design it, marking another important milestone in the ambitious project to restore the city’s historic waterway.

The Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust (LHCRT) has celebrated the opening of Buck’s Bridge at Gallows Reach, off Tamworth Road, with former trustee and bridge designer Peter Buck unveiling the nameplate.

The ceremony recognised Peter’s contribution to the restoration project and the dedication of the volunteers, engineers and supporters who have helped turn the plans into reality.

A Bridge Built Through Community Support

Installed in April 2026, the new lift bridge provides a safe crossing over the canal route, maintaining the public right of way between Longbridge Road and Tamworth Road.

When the restored canal becomes navigable, the bridge will be able to lift to allow boats to pass beneath it.

The project was made possible through generous community support, including £39,000 raised during the Trust’s Big Give Christmas Challenge in 2022 and a further £21,000 donated through the legacy of a local supporter.

Specialist engineering company ProMack Ltd carried out the installation, supported by groundwork from Walsh Construction and the efforts of LHCRT volunteers.

Restoring a Piece of Lichfield’s Heritage

Buck’s Bridge forms part of the wider Gallows Reach restoration project, which aims to reconnect sections of the historic Lichfield Canal.

The scheme includes approximately 650 metres of restored canal channel between London Road and Borrowcop Locks Canal Park, a new lock near Cricket Lane, improved pedestrian access and additional landscaping.

Work is being undertaken in stages, with volunteers playing a central role in bringing the waterway back to life.

The restoration also aims to enhance the surrounding environment through new planting, improved habitats and opportunities for residents to enjoy the canal corridor.

A Lasting Tribute

Naming the bridge after Peter Buck recognises both his engineering contribution and the years of commitment behind the canal’s revival.

For the Trust and its supporters, the new crossing represents far more than a practical piece of infrastructure. It is another visible sign of progress towards the long-term ambition of bringing boats back to Lichfield.

With further restoration work planned over the coming years, Buck’s Bridge will stand as a lasting reminder of what community determination, technical expertise and volunteer dedication can achieve.

Find out more: Visit the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust for restoration updates, volunteering opportunities and ways to support the project.

Published: 12 October 2026 | What’s On in Sutton Coldfield, incorporating What’s On in Lichfield & Tamworth.

Photographs courtesy of the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust (LHCRT).