VC memorials ‘in way’ of revamped city square
ABIRMINGHAM MP has hit out at plans to move a memorial to Birmingham’s First World War Victoria Cross heroes as part of a £10 million revamp of Centenary Square.
The plan was criticised by Perry Barr MP Khalid Mahmood after it was revealed it will see ten engraved stones dedicated to Birmingham’s VC winners moved.
The £10 million project will also see a grid of 43 lighting columns erected around the square along with new pools, fountains, trees and benches.
The design, by Edinburgh-based Graeme Massie Architects, was chosen from 185 entries in a competition last year.
The project also came in for some criticism for its cost at a time when the Library of Birmingham, which fronts the square, has seen staffing and opening hours drastically cut.
Mr Mahmood is now calling for the architects to go back to the drawing.
He also feared the grid of lighting columns will limit space for popular attractions like the annual ice rink, big wheel and fun fairs.
Historic England also objected to the moving of the engraved stones, which are arranged on the ground around the Hall of Memory and were seen by Prince William on a visit in December.
The report to the planning committee said they would be moved to the entrance ramps on the plinth as part of the redevelopment.
Mr Mahmood said: “It’s a disgrace. These people made a huge sacrifice for this country but now their memorials are in the way. The architects should leave them alone.”
He added: “The space for events is also being reduced. The ice rink and big wheel are very popular and we need that space.”
Mr Mahmood outlined his objections in a letter to the planning committee and said he would raise them with the council leadership.
But a planning committee report said: “The overall design concept as proposed would address current issues with the square while providing a distinctive civic event space.
“The current square incorporates pavers that are starting to look dated and have lifted or sunk in places.
“There is also a feeling of a lack of activity when there is no event taking place, with limited ‘spilling’ out of existing uses around the square.
“Much of the square is very open with limited tree planting which, although the library garden has attempted to address, remains an issue. The large feature poles will provide a distinctive space that will be immediately recognisable.
“This would complement the Library of Birmingham and act as a landmark composition at an international level.
“The proposals will deliver a transformational change to this key civic event space at the heart of the city.”
City council officers have recommended the planning committee approves the project.
If it gets the green light, work will start in January and be complete by summer 2018.
The project, which will be overlooked by the new home of HSBC UK at Arena Central over the road, will coincide with work in Broad Street to extend the Midland Metro tram from New Street station.