If you’ve walked along Birmingham’s New Street from Victoria Square toward the Bullring recently, you’ve probably noticed that construction work is still very much underway. Since the beginning of the year, contractors have been transforming this busy thoroughfare to improve the public space.
The project started on January 5, with paving removed and sections fenced off as work kicked off. The term “public realm” refers to the shared, communal areas we all use, and this update aims to enhance these spaces significantly.
Key improvements include a new footpath, upgraded lighting, the addition of benches, and new bike parking facilities. Drainage and accessibility will also be improved, making the area more user-friendly for everyone. The entire redevelopment is scheduled to take about two years to complete.
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However, this doesn’t mean New Street will be disrupted for the entire two years. The project is divided into several phases, covering New Street’s upper end, Bennetts Hill, Ethel Street, Lower Temple Street, Eden Place, and Chamberlain Passage—all set to undergo positive changes.
The work is being carried out by contractors CPC Civils. Initially, it was planned that the upper section of New Street would be completed by April 16, but this timeline was adjusted after large underground concrete areas needed removal. Despite this, Birmingham City Council assured that the overall project completion date remains unchanged.
CPC Civils has been communicating closely with local businesses to share updates and gather feedback. To minimize disruption, temporary bridges have been installed so that shops remain accessible even when sections of the street are closed for work.
Looking ahead, the Temple Street phase is hoped to be finished by May 22, with the steps next to the Floozie on the Holloway anticipated for completion by May 29. Work between Ethel Street and the bottom of Bennetts Hill is targeted for completion by July 9. Lastly, the area outside Hotel Chocolat should be done by June 4.
As progress continues, we will keep you informed with detailed updates on each stage of the work and their timelines.
Birmingham—it will be even more beautiful when it’s all finished!