A new green space in Birmingham city centre, called the Serpentine Path, could connect Centenary Square and Holliday Street, providing access to a hidden Grade II-listed aqueduct. The proposal comes from Arena Central Developments, the firm behind the Arena Central masterplan near the Library of Birmingham.
Proposed Routes and Features
The Serpentine Path would offer three route options: a direct straight line for those in a hurry, a winding zig-zag path with seating for relaxation, and a 'Play on Way' trail for children featuring interactive elements like a balance line, sound cushions, stepping logs, and a climbing rope. A water feature, designed as an urban drainage channel with pebbles and plants, would manage surface water runoff and educate visitors about sustainability.
The Holliday Street Aqueduct
The path would lead to the Grade II-listed Holliday Street Aqueduct, built in 1870 to carry the Birmingham and Worcester Canal over the road. The aqueduct features 24 cast iron columns from the Andrew Handyside and Company foundry in Derby, decorated with diamond panels and old lantern streetlights now lit by LEDs. The structure is often overlooked by passing motorists.
Visual images of the proposed park are available on the Birmingham City Council planning portal under application number 2025/05687/PA, created by architecture firm Gillespies. If approved, the Serpentine Path would provide a new green route from the Library of Birmingham and Centenary Square to the aqueduct, with onward access to the Mailbox.
