This Earth Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the “Our Planet, Our Power” theme and the practical steps we are taking across our community hubs to build a cleaner, more sustainable future as we look ahead to 2030.

At Witton Lodge Community Association, environmental stewardship shapes every project but, today, we’re amplifying our renewable energy commitments. From the solar-powered independent living scheme at Sycamore Court to the pioneering Witton Lakes Eco Hub, we’re demonstrating how grassroots action creates tangible environmental benefits for our communities.

At both Sycamore Court and Perry Common Community Hall, solar panels quietly get on with converting sunlight into electricity to power the venues. But we haven’t stopped there, solar panels have also been installed on 93 of our properties across Erdington ensuring that our tenants can benefit from cleaner, greener energy and lower electricity bills. The impact is twofold: we’re reducing our carbon footprint and helping local families save money – proof that being eco-friendly and wallet-friendly can go hand in hand.

But if you want to see sustainability in action, look no further than the Witton Lakes Eco Hub. Shortlisted for the prestigious RIBA West Midlands Award, the Hub is the crown jewel of our green ambitions. Housed in a lovingly restored parkkeeper’s cottage, it stands as a testament to what can happen when community vision, tenacity, and a dash of eco-innovation come together.

Energy efficiency is at the heart of the Hub’s design. Triple-glazed windows, thick insulation, and a planted sedum roof help keep the building warm in winter and cool in summer, all while supporting local biodiversity. These features ensure that the facility is comfortable all year round and gentle on the planet.

When it comes to renewable energy, the Eco Hub leads by example. Air source heat pumps provide efficient heating and hot water, while solar panels on the roof generate clean electricity. This combination works to helps us cut down on carbon emissions. But the Eco Hub is more than just a building, it’s a living classroom. Through our Eco Together programme, we empower residents to make positive environmental changes in their own lives. Guided tours of the Hub offer a hands-on look at how sustainable design works in practice, inspiring others to act for a greener future.

The Eco Hub is more than just bricks, mortar, and solar panels. It’s a vibrant space where people come together to learn, grow, and support each other. From tackling fuel and food poverty to running wellbeing activities and eco-education courses, the Hub is a holistic resource for the community.

Our journey doesn’t end here. We’re continuing to invest in our dedicated energy advisors, who play a vital role in helping Erdington residents reduce their energy bills and live more sustainably. Alongside this, we have ambitious plans to expand our renewable energy projects further. This ongoing commitment reflects our determination to push the boundaries of what a community association can achieve, not just for the environment, but for the people we serve. By combining expert advice, practical support, and innovative green initiatives, we’re building a fairer, greener future.

So, this Earth Day, we invite you to join us – whether it’s by attending an event, volunteering, or simply flicking off a light switch when you leave the room. Together, we’re proving that sustainable, eco-friendly communities aren’t just possible – they’re already happening, right here in North Birmingham.