Set in the heart of Staffordshire, Tamworth is a proud and historic borough with a strong sense of identity and a growing population of more than 81,000 residents. Our heritage, cultural offer, green spaces, waterways, and leisure destinations all contribute to a borough that is rich in character and ambition.

Tamworth’s excellent transport links and proximity to regional economic centres, support employment and provide opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Tamworth is evolving. While we remain a vibrant and welcoming place, the borough faces complex challenges shaped by economic pressures, demographic change, and national cost-of-living impacts. One in five children are growing up in poverty, and several neighbourhoods sit among the most income-deprived in England. These inequalities require targeted action and a joined-up approach to health, skills, housing, and community support. Our refreshed Corporate Plan recognises this reality and recommits the council to reducing these gaps and improving life chances for all.

At the same time, Tamworth is undergoing a period of significant transformation. Major regeneration programmes, including the redevelopment of key town centre spaces, the renewal of St Editha’s Square, and investment in community, cultural, and business infrastructure, is reshaping the borough for the future.

These changes are designed not only to revitalise place, but also to strengthen confidence, attract investment, and create opportunities for local people.

As the local government landscape continues to shift, Tamworth faces significant and evolving challenges.  We will remain focused on delivering strong, visible, and accountable leadership while working collaboratively with partners across the public, private, and voluntary sectors.

We are committed to protecting essential services, modernising how the council works, and using evidence and insight to make the best decisions for our community.

Corporate Peer Challenge (CPC) Progress Review

In September 2025, the Local Government Association conducted its Corporate Peer Challenge Progress Review, providing external assurance on Tamworth’s improvement journey.

The feedback confirmed that our strategic approach is:

• Stronger and more coherent, with clearer governance and leadership.
• Financially more robust, supported by earlier budget setting, monthly monitoring, and a new Financial Resilience Plan.
• Modernised, driven by improved digital planning, performance reporting, and a soon to be strengthened Programme Management Office.
• More community-centred, reflecting our commitment to openness, engagement, and co-design.

Reviewers recognised visible progress against the CPC Action Plan, while noting the ongoing need for disciplined savings delivery, and continued preparation for Local Government Reorganisation.

State of the Borough Report 2025/26

This report provides a clear and evidence-based overview of Tamworth’s progress over the past year, highlighting key achievements, ongoing challenges, and the factors shaping our strategic priorities.

Please see this report for further detailed information.

Above all, our ambition is to build a borough where everyone feels they belong, where opportunities are accessible, and where neighbourhoods are safe, healthy, and resilient.

By listening to residents, focusing on long-term outcomes and delivering meaningful change, we will continue our mission of building a better Tamworth.