The Digbeth Business Improvement District (BID) has formally called for an independent economic and business disruption impact assessment as the first public consultation on the Midlands Rail Hub proposals draws to a close on Friday, August 28. The newly-formed BID is also urging the Midlands Rail Hub Alliance to publish its options and viability analysis before the next consultation round, scheduled for 2027.
Venues fear closure by 2030
A number of live music and entertainment venues in Digbeth, including The Night Owl, The Warehouse and Mama Roux, have shared worries that they would be forced to close by 2030 if the plans to widen the Bordesley Viaduct go ahead. The venues expressed these concerns during the public consultation being held by the Midlands Rail Hub, which is proposing significant construction works in the neighbourhood.
Businesses in Digbeth have also highlighted how they have already been affected by disruption associated with HS2 and the Eastside Metro extension, with roadworks and layout changes transforming the area over several years. The BID says this history of disruption makes the need for early assessment even more pressing.
Two key pleas to the rail hub
The Digbeth BID has made two specific requests to the Midlands Rail Hub. First, it is calling for an independent economic and business disruption impact assessment to begin immediately. The aim, according to the BID, is to 'establish a baseline while businesses are still trading and before continued uncertainty has the potential to affect investment, recruitment or expansion'.
Second, the BID has asked the Midlands Rail Hub Alliance to publish its options and viability analysis, 'including the evidence behind the preferred early proposal and the alternatives considered, before the next consultation'. The next consultation is scheduled for 2027.
Emma Riley, chair of Digbeth BID, said: "We absolutely support investment in the West Midlands and better rail connections. This isn't about standing in the way of progress; it's about ensuring progress doesn't come at the expense of the businesses and communities already here."
Years of disruption already endured
Riley added: "Digbeth has already lived through years of disruption from HS2 and the Eastside Metro Extension – long-term projects that have yet to deliver benefits to businesses in the region. We've seen what can happen when the impact on businesses isn't properly understood early enough. We're asking for something straightforward: assess the economic impact now, while businesses are still trading, and use that evidence to shape the proposals."
She concluded: "Digbeth BID gives businesses a stronger collective voice. Now is exactly the time to use it."
The Digbeth BID has also written to Birmingham City Council, Shabana Mahmood MP and West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, asking for their support in addressing these concerns.
Local businesses are being urged to respond to the rail plans before the end of the day on Friday by emailing engagement@mrhalliance.co.uk. Those needing support with their response can contact the BID directly at hello@digbethbid.co.uk. The full plans are available for public viewing.
