Council Leader Voices Regret Over Closure of Historic Sparkbrook Community Centre
Birmingham City Council leader John Cotton has expressed deep regret over the closure of a cherished community space and heritage building in Sparkbrook, stating it is "not a position I want to be in." The Labour leader made these remarks during an interview with BirminghamLive politics and people editor Jane Haynes, where he addressed the shutdown of the Friends Institute on Moseley Road.
Heritage Site Closes Amid Community Heartache
The Grade II-listed former Quaker meeting house, which is on the Heritage England at-risk register, officially closed on Thursday, April 2. This building had served as a vital community hub for local residents, offering therapy, friendship, and support. It was originally gifted to Birmingham City Council in trust by the Cadbury family, adding to its historical significance.
During the interview, Jane Haynes pressed Councillor Cotton on the emotional impact of the closure, asking if he personally understood the pain caused. She highlighted scenes of people in tears who had devoted their lives to running projects at the centre and questioned whether Labour is perceived as uncaring about heritage and community in the city.
Cotton's Response: Safety Concerns and Austerity Legacy
In his response, Cotton emphasized the importance of community spaces, noting his experiences as a ward councillor in areas like Glebe Farm. He stated, "I absolutely understand the upset that there is around the Friends Institute. We're unfortunately in a position where the health and safety and other issues around the building make it very difficult for that to continue to be occupied."
He assured that the council is committed to working with residents to identify alternative spaces, recognizing that community activity is "incredibly important to neighbourhoods." Cotton attributed the closure to broader challenges, calling it the "legacy of 15 years of austerity." He explained that funding cuts have forced urban authorities like Birmingham to prioritize statutory services, such as adult and children's social care and homelessness crisis management, over investments in heritage and community projects.
Looking Forward: Budget Improvements and Future Plans
Cotton pointed to recent positive developments, including a balanced budget set by the council and a multi-year funding settlement from the Labour government. This settlement provides a £630 million spending boost over the next few years, which he said will help repair some of the damage caused by austerity.
He concluded, "I think it's sad that we find ourselves in a situation where some historic legacy buildings in this city face those challenges, but we will work with communities to ensure that we sustain that community activity." Cotton reiterated his understanding of people's upset and pledged to ensure the council collaborates with affected groups to find alternatives.
