Birmingham Local Conservatives today unveiled an ambitious programme of activities designed to foster pride in our city’s rich history and the United Kingdom’s enduring legacy. By championing local and national culture, we aim to unite communities, inspire the next generation, and counter the negativity of those who seek to undermine our shared achievements. At the heart of these initiatives is a commitment to celebrating the landmarks that define our identity.
Key activities include:
Hosting a Vibrant St George’s Day Parade: On 23 April each year, Birmingham will come alive with a grand parade honouring England’s patron saint, with community participation to showcase our national spirit.
Flying National & Civic Flags on Public Buildings: We will ensure the Union Flag and St George’s Cross & Council Coat of Arms are proudly displayed on key civic sites year‑round, symbolising our unwavering patriotism and the unity it brings.
Marking the 1,100th Anniversary of England’s Unification by King Athelstan: With a special focus on Mercian heritage, given Birmingham’s roots in the ancient Kingdom of Mercia, we will host events in 2027 highlighting Athelstan’s pivotal role in forging a united England. This will include educational talks, exhibitions, and community gatherings to reflect on how our region contributed to this foundational moment.
Commemorating the 500th Anniversary of Sutton Park’s Gifting: In 2028, we will celebrate Henry VIII’s granting of Sutton Park to the people of our region and the granting of Sutton Coldfield's Royal Status at the request of Bishop John Vesey. Working in partnership with Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, Sir Andrew Mitchell MP and the organising committee for the quincentenary celebrations, Birmingham will contribute fully to the exciting programme of events that is already being formulated. We will work with the Town Council to ensure the park is placed into a charitable trust well in advance of 2028, ensuring access to much-needed investment for the historic park
Curriculum Support for Schools: To embed these stories in young minds, we will provide resources and funding for local schools to integrate lessons on St George’s Day, Athelstan’s unification, Sutton Park’s history, and broader Birmingham heritage into their curricula—helping children appreciate pride in their roots. This will include celebrating some of Birmingham’s pioneers, such as Joseph Chamberlain and Joseph Sturge, the women of the Birmingham Ladies’ Anti‑Slavery Society, and local heroes like Bertha Bracey, one of the founders of the Kindertransport which helped save thousands of Jewish schoolchildren from Nazi‑occupied Europe.
Enhanced Support for Birmingham Museums: We pledge increased funding to keep all our museums open and thriving, alongside a series of heritage‑promoting events such as workshops, lectures, and interactive exhibits to draw visitors and celebrate Birmingham’s global contributions to industry, innovation, and culture.
Councillor Robert Alden (Con, Erdington), Leader of the Opposition & Birmingham Local Conservatives, said:
Pride in our place and history is a powerful force for unity. In a time when some voices choose to talk-down our city and country, we choose to celebrate the extraordinary contributions Birmingham and Britain have made to the world; from the Industrial Revolution to our role in shaping modern democracy, ending slavery, and combatting the evils of fascism. These initiatives will bring people together, regardless of background, to honour our past and build a brighter future.
The City of Chamberlains, Cadburys, Spitfires, pen nips, heavy metal, the industrial revolution and so much more. Some of the greatest industrialists and inventors of the world called Birmingham home. A Local Conservative run Birmingham will ensure we celebrate, promote and share our incredible journey as a city, region and country. Birmingham is the greatest city in the world and we would make sure everyone hears why.
This programme underscores the Conservative commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage as a cornerstone of community cohesion. By rejecting division and embracing celebration, we reaffirm that our history is a source of strength, inspiration, and shared purpose.
Councillor Simon Ward (Con, Four Oaks, Sutton Town Council), Leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said:
It is great to see Local Conservatives in Birmingham celebrating the rich history of our Royal Town. Our 500th birthday is massively important to the town and the local area. Exciting plans are being formulated across Royal Sutton Coldfield to mark this landmark across our community. The pledge to see our fantastic park placed into a charitable trust will ensure that it receives the funding it so desperately needs.
