The former Spring Hill Library, a beautiful Victorian building featuring a striking original clock tower, is set for revival thanks to a community-led initiative. Situated on one of Birmingham’s busiest roundabouts in Ladywood, thousands of motorists pass the landmark hourly, yet it has been at risk due to significant structural issues, a crumbling interior, and broken heating.
Now, Midlands Turkish Society CIC has taken over the lease from Birmingham City Council and plans to restore the 130-year-old building to its former glory. The society aims to transform the site into a vibrant community hub offering educational classes, library services, and a venue for meetings and events.
Located beside Tesco at the Ladywood Middleway junction with Summer Hill Road and Spring Hill, the building had been closed since 2022 following boiler failure and structural concerns, including a large crack in a supporting wall.
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The society’s chairman, Dr Goktug Tenekeci, an experienced engineer and divisional director at Jacobs, is optimistic about the project, having submitted plans to ensure its financial sustainability. He explained that initial fundraising has already garnered around £10,000 towards rent and refurbishments. Further significant fundraising events are scheduled in the coming months.
“Our ethos at Midlands Turkish Society is ‘building bridges, connecting cultures.’ Every event and activity we organise is open to all members of the community,” said Dr Tenekeci. The society supports the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot diaspora across the Midlands and runs various cultural, sporting, and social events, including an annual gala to mark Turkish Republic Day.
The group intends to restore the building as a community centre serving the broader Ladywood area, which is often cited among Birmingham’s most deprived neighbourhoods. Alongside community use, the building will host the society’s own events and educational programmes. The restoration will also facilitate a venue for hire to generate income.
The council highlighted the society’s plans to offer education and training facilities, employment support, collaborative programmes with Birmingham University, skills development, and a community warm space. Importantly, the society intends to reinstate library services, maintaining the building’s historic role.
Local political figures have expressed support for the project. Conservative group leader Cllr Robert Alden praised efforts to retain library provision, stressing the importance of preserving the listed building, while Green Party deputy leader Cllr Julien Pritchard welcomed the prospects of the library service returning.
The building, designed by renowned Birmingham architects Martin and Chamberlain, first opened its doors in January 1893. The lease transfer was approved on 17 August, marking the beginning of a promising new chapter for this beloved Birmingham heritage gem.
Dr Tenekeci hopes to complete essential repairs and reopen the building by spring next year, demonstrating a strong track record in managing restoration projects and securing necessary funding.
With dedicated volunteers, community backing, and strategic planning, Midlands Turkish Society is breathing new life into a historic landmark, ensuring it remains a cherished community asset for generations to come.