In 1995, The Housing Action Trust (HAT) transferred homes in Castle Vale to what was then called the Castle Vale Community Housing Trust. Over time, we evolved into the Pioneer Group in 2015. As a charity, we’re committed to reinvesting in homes and communities while minimising our environmental impact.
We also include two brands:
Castle Vale has a rich history, originally the site of Birmingham’s first aeroplane take-off. In the 20th century, it became a major airfield during both World Wars. After World War II, much of the housing in Birmingham was in poor condition, leading to a construction programme on the Castle Vale Aerodrome site.
However, by the 1970s, the area faced significant challenges, including poor housing quality and high levels of crime.
In 1991, the Government announced that Castle Vale would become a Housing Action Trust (HAT) to regenerate the area. By 1993, the HAT had set out to improve not only the housing but also the health, economy, and social wellbeing of the community. The changes made were transformative, reducing crime and improving quality of life for residents.
In 1997, Castle Vale Community Housing Association (CVCHA) was formed to continue the work of the Housing Action Trust. A ballot in 2003 saw 98% of residents vote to transfer to CVCHA.
Castle Vale Community Housing and Compass Support worked together for over a decade to improve the area, providing quality housing, clean and safe surroundings, and better access to health, education, and employment.
As the needs of the community changed, it became clear that Castle Vale Community Housing and Compass Support needed to grow. In 2015, we rebranded as The Pioneer Group to reflect our roots in aviation and to expand our impact.
Our name and logo—featuring a propeller—honour the area’s aviation history, marking the period between the first successful flight and the start of World War I.
Today, we’re proud of the progress we’ve made and continue to make in Castle Vale, Stockland Green, and Falcon Lodge. We also manage the Castle Vale Football Stadium and provide support to neighbouring communities and third-sector groups.
We have helped initiatives like the Balsall Heath Forum become financially independent through community-led housing development and are active in promoting sustainable neighbourhood regeneration across Birmingham.