New permanent barriers have been installed along New Street in Birmingham city centre to prevent criminals and terrorists from using vehicles to harm pedestrians. These hostile vehicle mitigation posts replace previous temporary blocks, enhancing long-term safety on one of the city’s busiest pedestrian thoroughfares.
For years, temporary measures have secured New Street, especially during high-traffic events like the Frankfurt Christmas Market, which attracts around five million visitors annually. The new robust barriers are a key feature of extensive public realm improvements currently underway.
This major project includes refreshed paving, improved accessibility, new wayfinding signage, upgraded lighting, additional bike racks, and more seating options to create a safer and more welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
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Work on New Street began in January, with the initial phase targeting the upper end scheduled for completion by the end of April. However, Birmingham City Council has acknowledged delays caused by the need to remove extensive underground concrete. Despite this, they affirm the overall two-year timeline for the six project phases remains unchanged.
Construction site arrangements have been adjusted to maintain access to local shops and businesses. Temporary pedestrian bridges now span areas where footways have been closed, ensuring uninterrupted access. Additionally, sections of the street have been reopened with barriers removed, providing more walking space than earlier in the year.
Elsewhere, improvements continue at Victoria Square, where the steps beside the iconic Floozie in the Jacuzzi statue are being replaced.
Recent weeks have also seen changes to New Street’s business landscape. Navaraza, a Mexican-Indian restaurant, closed in early May, with a landlord’s notice displayed in the window. Nearby, Claire’s Accessories shut down following the company’s administration. Lloyds Bank remains closed for renovations at its Waterloo Street location, but is expected to reopen by Monday, July 6.
These updates not only enhance safety but also contribute to Birmingham’s vision for a vibrant, accessible, and secure city centre.