'Don't let politics define city's reputation'

A fierce row about a city's reputation has seen it described as both a powerhouse and a cesspit by elected members.

Following the heated budget debate at Birmingham City Council, residents have been urged to "not let politics say what their city is".

Leader John Cotton told the meeting his Labour group's budget proposals would put the city "back on track", which was a "thriving powerhouse", with millions being invested in council services and regeneration projects.

But his comments prompted a backlash, with some councillors claiming Birmingham's bin strike and financial crisis had made it a "laughing stock".

During the meeting on Tuesday, Labour were not able to pass financial plans which would have balanced the authority's budget for the first time in three years.

A further meeting to set the budget will be held before 11 March.

Councillor Jane Jones, who now sits as an independent member after leaving the Labour group, said the city had turned into the "cesspit of Europe".

She added it had become a "laughing stock" on the world stage.

In response, people living in and around the city said the community was what forged its identity.

Vicky Fisher said: "I think Birmingham is what you make it."

She added she had lived in different parts of the city, including Small Heath, Sparkbrook and Alum Rock.

"I've lived in what some people would class as not the most desirable areas. I would say it depends on what you put into the community," she said.

"Don't let the politics say what our city is, allow it to be what you want for your area. It's about you changing your local area."

She gave an example of volunteer litter pickers being among "the local people who are doing it".

Another resident Isaac Samuel said, while he could not call Birmingham "amazing" or a "powerhouse", he could see its potential.

He said: "I think parts of the city are a cesspit. There's quite a lot that has been ignored for a long time.

"There's some ongoing projects that, when they are done, I think we will see more potential there as well.

"But there's a lot that's not been done as well and the stuff that's not been done stands out more."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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