Hello Silhillians💙
We’re properly in that half-term sweet spot now; half way through the week and if you're thinking of things to make the most of your time off, we've got you covered! Here’s a quick hit of local news, plus a few solid, low-effort ideas for the next few days.
— Max
News
£20m Pride in Place investment approved for Chelmsley Wood
Chelmsley Wood is set to benefit from up to £20 million of investment over the next ten years, as part of a “Pride in Place” initiative aimed at funding real local improvements decided by people who live/work in the area.
This is one of those “quietly massive” announcements that can genuinely change a community — worth a skim.
Local Business Watch 👀
Søstrene Grene is coming to Solihull High Street
If you love the “wander around and somehow leave with a basket you didn’t plan” kind of shop… Søstrene Grene has confirmed a new Solihull store on the High Street.
The launch date hasn’t been announced yet, but it’s officially happening — and I’m calling it now: this place will be dangerous.
Half-term help (properly useful)
HAF: free activities + healthy meals (bookings)
Solihull’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) is running this February half-term — fully funded activities plus meals for children who qualify for free school meals.
If you’re eligible, you can book here:
https://edportals.solihull.gov.uk
A message from Build Your Bake
If you’ve got a birthday, half-term treat, or “bring something nice” moment coming up, this week’s sponsor Build Your Bake is one to know. They make custom brownies, rocky roads, cupcakes (and more) — perfect for gifting, sharing at work, or just stocking up for the weekend. Order is simple: drop them a message on Facebook and they’ll sort the details with you.
👉 Click here to order / enquire: https://www.facebook.com/buildyourbake
Community Spotlight
Work experience that actually changes things!
A wholesome one: Solihull Council shared a story about their Youth Trailblazer programme — supporting 18–21 year olds who are out of work with hands-on placements. Two local participants explored animal-related career paths through a placement with Snooty Pooch CIC (therapy dogs + community wellbeing).
If you like seeing “Solihull doing good stuff” — this is it.
Half-term without the screens
A few easy wins for Thu–Sun. Events marked (Tickets / £) may require booking — double-check before heading out.)
Family / Half-term 🏹
Scout Skills at Touchwood | Thu 19 Feb (Archery) (Tickets / £)
Location: Touchwood
What: Archery day as part of the half-term Scout Skills week (run with Solihull Scouts). £5.50 per child includes a kids hot chocolate.
Info / tickets: https://visitsolihull.co.uk/event/gordons-feb-half-term-scout-skills/
Art / Free 🎨
Catherine Holland: “Where the Important Things Are” | until Fri 21 Feb (FREE)
Location: The Core (Courtyard Gallery)
What: Uplifting local landscapes — free to pop in while you’re in town.
Info: https://visitsolihull.co.uk/event/art-by-catherine-holland-where-the-important-things-are/
Big day out 🚗
Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show | Tue 17 – Sun 22 Feb (Tickets / £)
Location: NEC Birmingham
What: Massive “start of year” showcase — and kids under 16 go free.
Info / tickets: https://visitsolihull.co.uk/event/the-caravan-camping-and-motorhome-show-2/
Evening plans 🎶
Free live music nights at Resorts World (High Line) | Wed / Fri / Sat (FREE entry)
Location: Resorts World
What: Live performers and bands (with DJs later). Great “we want to go out but not go OUT OUT” plan.
Info: https://www.resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk/events/high-line-live-music-nights
Ice-skating options ⛸️
Feeling inspired by the Winter Olympics. Planet Ice have half-term sessions (including Disco Skate options)
Location: Planet Ice (check Solihull session times)
Info: https://planet-ice.co.uk/holidays
Quick heads-up 🚆
Train changes (upcoming engineering works)
If you’ve got weekend travel planned, West Midlands Railway is flagging upcoming engineering works that may mean replacement buses / altered services on certain routes (worth checking before you go).
Thanks for reading Solihull Spotlight 💙 Reply and tell me what you want more of: family stuff, food, deals, walking routes, live music, sport, hidden gems; you name it, we’ll cover it!
P.S. Want your business in front of local Solihull readers? Reply with “SPONSOR” and I’ll send over the simple options. [email protected]
