Martyn Smith

Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council approved an amended motion urging the council to call out holiday companies that raise prices during school holidays and disproportionately disadvantage working-class families. The original proposal, submitted by Black Country Party councillor Steve Edwards, sought to allow children to take up to ten days off school during term time. Labour’s amendment instead retained the emphasis on school attendance and educational attainment while addressing holiday market pressures. Conservative and Reform UK councillors supported the amended approach, although councillors differed over the impact of term-time absence and parental fines.

Dudley Council approved a new local plan that protects green belt land and directs development through 2041, though newly increased national housing targets render it immediately outdated and require work to begin on a replacement. Councillors voiced concerns over pressure to build 1,514 homes annually, limited employment land, and the implications of forthcoming planning reforms. The plan received cross‑party support, with members warning that higher housing requirements and loss of control to national officials could threaten local green spaces and long‑term industrial capacity.

A joint operation by Dudley Council and West Midlands Police used drone technology to monitor and respond to antisocial behaviour around the Merry Hill Centre, resulting in vehicle seizures and tenancy enforcement actions. Officials highlighted the capabilities of the new drone team and the broader strategy under a Public Space Protection Order aimed at curbing car cruising and related nuisances. Council leaders emphasized their commitment to addressing persistent antisocial behaviour across the borough.