Birmingham City Council has published its draft Local Plan, a comprehensive document outlining development priorities for the next two decades. Among its key proposals is the creation of a Central Cultural Quarter in the city centre, encompassing landmarks such as Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, The Alexandra Theatre, The O2 Academy, Birmingham Hippodrome, and Chinatown. The plan envisions a 'worldwide recognised cultural destination where the arts are promoted, creativity thrives, and individuality is celebrated.'
Station Street: A Key Opportunity
Station Street is identified as a critical element within the cultural quarter. Home to The Electric Cinema and The Crown—the pub where Black Sabbath played their first gig—the street is currently blighted by closed venues despite a high-profile campaign to 'save' it. The council states that Station Street is 'fundamental to the experience of visitors who access this part of the city centre from the Spanish Steps entrance of New Street Station' and serves as a gateway to the Theatre District, Chinatown, and Gay Village. Several historic buildings on the street require protection.
Council Commitments and Public Realm Improvements
The draft Local Plan confirms the council is 'committed to working with partners on proposals to ensure the long-term sustainability of these buildings.' Planned improvements include wider footpaths, spill-out space for pop-ups and licensed busking, and a new public space opposite the New Street station entrance. Measures to reduce the impact of cars and congestion are also proposed. A long-term aspiration involves demolishing the TK Maxx building to open up Station Street onto 1000 Trades Square, creating a focal point with seating steps. Connections to the rest of the Growth Zone will be enhanced, particularly along Hill Street and Hurst Street.
Political Support and Restoration Plans
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker expressed commitment to restoring The Crown, calling it a 'wonderful heritage asset.' He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that he has met the owners, Toyoko Inn, and will raise the issue with new council leader Cllr Roger Harmer. 'I know from previous discussions with him, he’s equally committed – as I am – to ensuring The Crown is restored, refurbished and then managed sustainably for decades ahead,' Parker said. Cllr Deborah Harries, cabinet member for culture and heritage, described discussions as 'constructive' and 'positively moving forwards.' She added that the council is preparing five new local listing nominations, including The Electric Cinema, and is open to making Station Street more pedestrian-friendly.
Toyoko Inn's Plans for The Crown
Toyoko Inn, owner of The Crown, has insisted it has long-term plans to restore the pub and build a hotel with around 300 beds on the existing car park at the rear. A document from last year stated: 'It is the intention that the scope of the future project will deliver two connected and coherent elements... The pub is a historically important site and its new vision will reflect and celebrate this heritage.' However, the lack of progress has drawn criticism from campaigners.
Broader Cultural Vision
The council emphasised that Birmingham's cultural offer has a significant economic impact and is crucial for community access to the arts. The Central Quarter Growth Zone complements other cultural clusters like Digbeth and the Jewellery Quarter. By designating the area as a cultural growth zone, investment can be directed towards cultural uses and infrastructure. The draft Local Plan states: 'Through identifying these assets and designating the area as a cultural growth zone, investment can be directed towards cultural uses, associated uses and infrastructure requirements needed to create an ecosystem in which culture thrives.'
