Smith's Wood road sets up Solihull's first Street Association

RESIDENTS in a Smith's Wood street have formed a group to foster a greater sense of community in their cul-de-sac.
Around a dozen residents from Vauxhall Crescent have volunteered to run Solihull's first ever Street Association, organising a series of events for local people.
The initiative was launched on Saturday, September 13, with around 50 locals turning out for a neighbourhood BBQ.
Around half of those who attended the get-together admitted that they had no friends in the road, something that the Street Association team are keen to remedy.
The associations are the brainchild of Birmingham couple Martin and Gina Graham, in response to concerns about the dwindling contact between neighbours.
A recent survey highlighted the growing sense of isolation in many suburbs and estates, with more than half of those questioned admitting they didn't know their neighbours' first names.
Despite the lack of interaction in many parts of the country, the Grahams say their scheme has been well received, with the majority of the street associations being set up in the West Midlands.
Councillor Diana Holl-Allen, cabinet member for community and partnerships, hopes that more communities will be encouraged to follow the example of Vauxhall Crescent.
To find out more about forming a Street Association visit www.streetassociations.org and request a free starter pack, or alternatively call 0121 427 3300.