Bulldozers have started tearing down the walls of Priory Square in Birmingham city centre, signaling the poignant end of an iconic chapter in the city’s retail history. This site, once home to the much-loved Oasis Market, was a hub of vibrant cafés and independent shops, serving as a cultural heartbeat for the local community.
In March of last year, the shopping centre abruptly closed when Hammerson, the owner of Bullring, evacuated the building over fire safety concerns. Traders, many of whom had formed close ties and a thriving community, were forced to shut their doors with only hours’ notice. Heartbreakingly, many never returned to Priory Square, though some have since found new locations to continue their businesses.
Demolition work began last month, and recent footage from March 17 captures bulldozers bringing down crumbling walls around the site’s perimeter, while crews work to mitigate dust by spraying water and excavating pavement.
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Hammerson has revealed ambitious plans for the site’s future, unveiling a project called Martineau Galleries. This development aims to create 1,300 new homes, along with a mix of restaurants and a hotel. Positioned as a signature gateway to Birmingham, it will serve as a high-quality public space linking the city to the HS2 Curzon Street terminal.
While detailed updates remain forthcoming, Hammerson continues to engage with Birmingham City Council on next steps, promising future announcements once plans are further developed.
As the demolition erases the physical presence of Priory Square and Oasis Market, the city reflects on a cherished past while looking ahead to a transformative future.