Birmingham City Council has announced a series of long-awaited improvements to the notorious St Martin’s Queensway tunnel, a key pedestrian route running beneath the Bullring and connecting Birmingham New Street and Moor Street stations. Known locally as a ‘cesspit’ due to its issues with drug litter, human waste, and rough sleeping, the tunnel has become a major concern for commuters and residents alike.
Despite being one of the quickest ways to travel between two of Birmingham’s largest stations, many users have expressed fear and dissatisfaction with its deteriorating condition. Comments on social media platforms like TikTok have described the passage as unsafe, urgently needing restoration, and a place few would wander alone.
The tunnel, owned by Hammerson – the company that also manages Bullring and Grand Central – is the focus of a collaborative effort between the council, Hammerson, the police, West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), and Network Rail. Together, they are developing a comprehensive plan to transform this vital route into a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming space.
READ MORE: Lloyds Bank Identifies West Midlands as a Hotspot for First-Time Home Buyers
READ MORE: Nationwide Issues Final Warning Ahead of March 4 Deadline for Switching Incentive
Key features of the planned upgrade, scheduled to commence in early 2029, include:
- Creating a shared road space accommodating buses, black cabs, and bicycles.
- Expanding and opening up the footpath to improve pedestrian flow.
- Enhancing lighting throughout the tunnel to increase visibility and safety.
- Adding acoustic treatments to minimize noise from vehicular traffic.
- Installing graphical designs on newly tiled walls, aiming to brighten and modernize the environment.
A council spokesperson emphasized their commitment to tackling existing challenges such as anti-social behaviour, drug use, and rough sleeping in partnership with police and Hammerson. The goal is a significant, lasting improvement that benefits all who use this essential passageway.
While some local residents expressed disappointment at the extended timeline, hoping for immediate change, the recent sighting of litter pickers in the tunnel indicates that smaller efforts to improve cleanliness are already underway.
Regular users of the St Martin’s Queensway tunnel are encouraged to share their experiences and suggestions for further improvements to ensure the space meets the needs of Birmingham’s community.