Vicar calls for community help as works hit residents

A BIRMINGHAM vicar whose church is near the Alexander Stadium said he hoped the 2022 Commonwealth Games would bring an increase in community facilities and support.

The Reverend Canon Barrie Scott, 52, of St John the Evangelist Church, in Church Road, will have the Games on his doorstep. Rev Scott, pictured, said: “I was excited when Birmingham was awarded the Commonwealth Games, thinking of the great opportunities for the region. However, the A34 road works had a huge impact on the church congregation and funerals because of traffic.

“We don’t get a lot of notice on road works, sometimes just 24 hours. It is bad communication. Church Road is also used as a diversion for traffic, bus routes and parking.”

He did, however, praise the workers on the ground and Alexander Stadium for regularly communicating with the Church.

The 2040 Perry Barr Masterplan will further overhaul the area further with ambitious makeovers of local parks, sports venues, new homes and roads.

Father Barrie said: “Some parts of the 2040 plan can bring positive fruition such as the environmental changes. But will the people who live here see any difference? Will the legacy be received?

“I want to see an increase in community facilities and support. The future of the community is more important than profit from buildings. I regularly attend meetings but I don’t think higher councillors are much help as they focus on overall plans, not local voices.

“For example the flyover; the majority of people said no to it being removed in consultations, but the council still removed it.”

Despite some misgivings he still has some optimism for the Games and the positive impact on the West Midlands.

He said: “I would say most people are excited and happy for the Games, they believe it will bring prestige to the area. The current road works are a pain so we are in a ‘moany’ period. We want opportunities for young people, education and benefits to the community. We have to be the voice for the community so we will nag the council for it.”