New barriers designed to prevent criminals and terrorists from driving onto one of Birmingham city centre's busiest pedestrian walkways have been installed on New Street. The permanent posts are hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, intended to protect pedestrians from harm.
Background and Purpose
New Street has been protected by similar measures for years, with temporary blocks previously in place to ensure visitor safety. This has been particularly important during events like the Frankfurt Christmas Market, which attracts around five million people to the city centre.
Part of Major Public Realm Works
The new barriers are part of extensive public realm improvements that include new paving, enhanced accessibility, better wayfinding measures, and new bike racks, lighting, and benches. The first phase of works began in January, with the section affecting the top end of New Street initially expected to be completed by the end of April.
However, Birmingham City Council confirmed that the plans required re-sequencing due to the need to remove large areas of underground concrete. The overall completion date for the project remains unchanged, with the six phases expected to take two years.
Construction Site Adjustments
The layout of the construction site on New Street has been modified to ensure continued access to shops and businesses. Temporary bridges have been installed where footways have been removed, providing access to stores. Pedestrian space has increased compared to earlier in the year, with barriers removed and the central strip of the road now open to visitors.
Work is still ongoing at Victoria Square, where steps beside the Floozie in the Jacuzzi are being replaced. Several businesses along the upper stretch of New Street have changed recently. Mexican Indian restaurant Navaraza has closed, with the landlord posting a warning in the window on May 1. Opposite, Claire's Accessories closed following the company's administration. Lloyds Bank at the junction of Waterloo Street is also closed for renovation and is expected to reopen on Monday, July 6.
