Tuesday, December 9, 2025 conservation greatbarr walsall environment heritage greenbelt wildlife preservation community planning

Walsall Council has abandoned plans to reduce the Great Barr Conservation Area by 80%, preserving its current 774-hectare boundary after overwhelming public opposition. The council’s initial proposal, outlined in last year’s … Read More

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 hmrc blindness taxallowance personalallowance uktax disabilitybenefits sightimpairment taxrelief blindpersonsallowance incometax

UK taxpayers who are legally blind can increase their tax-free Personal Allowance from the standard £12,570 up to £16,960. Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) provides an additional Blind Person’s Allowance of £3,130, … Read More

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 pensioners winterfuel allowance energy heating dwp elderly savings thermostat bills

As winter approaches and energy bills remain high, tens of thousands of younger state pensioners will find up to £300 missing from their bank accounts compared to older pensioners. This gap is due to the Department for Work … Read More

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 tesco clubcard pay+ accountclosure loyalty savings debitcard fintech banking finance

Tesco has announced the forthcoming closure of its Clubcard Pay+ account, effective from 26 April 2026. Launched in March 2021, this popular prepaid debit card and round-up savings account enabled users to earn extra loyalty … Read More

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 moseley birmingham restaurants independent business community revival michelin culture local

Once overshadowed by emerging hotspots like Stirchley, Moseley—Birmingham’s historic bohemian enclave—is staging a compelling comeback. Though it lost its Michelin-starred Carter’s of Moseley in 2024, the neighbourhood … Read More

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 stollen christmas baking taste-test supermarkets festive marzipan fruitcake german food-review

In our household, stollen is a Christmas staple. Unlike heavy mince pies or rich yule logs, stollen offers a festive treat that you can enjoy daily without feeling weighed down. This traditional German Christmas fruit … Read More