The first walkabout took place in Woodrow on Wednesday, July 29, when residents joined representatives from Redditch Borough Council services, police, public health teams, local businesses and other partners to tour the area, identify concerns on the ground, and agree on practical actions. The programme is designed to strengthen residents’ voices and ensure local people can influence what happens on their streets. Feedback from the Woodrow session will help refine the approach before the programme is rolled out to other parts of Redditch. Councillor Ashley Monk, Redditch Borough Council’s portfolio holder for housing and community services, said the initiative is about 'getting out of meeting rooms and into the community' and creating more opportunities for residents to shape local priorities. The walkabouts form part of Redditch Borough Council’s housing improvement plan to strengthen tenant and resident engagement and ensure local people have a stronger voice in decisions.