Trendy Digbeth hit by crime, murder and chaos
Urban quarter’s burgeoning reputation being tarnished
ASERIES of high profile crimes and murders is damaging Birmingham’s Digbeth area as it tries to transform itself into a trendy urban quarter
Long known for its bohemian venues and nightlife, the area is now the subject of huge developments which are set to draw even more residents revellers.
But recent incidents involving an off-duty police officer stabbed after trying to break up a fight; the fatal knifing of a nightclub-goer; and an unsolved murder have highlighted the area for all the wrong reasons.
The Post spoke to a number of businesses in Digbeth to ask them about issues of crime in the area.
Janos Rabi, a co-owner of Birmingham Central Backpackers, in Coventry Street, said: “Guests always ask about the area and is it safe to walk back.
“We always say, yes of course. We’ve been in this business for the last 12 years.
“However, to be honest, it can still be improved.
“There are a lot of people on the streets, especially at the bars and clubs’ closing time. Lots of people shouting.
“To keep our guests safe we have CCTV cameras and you need a code to get in.
“I think lighting is going to be improved in the area on three main routes, including to HS2, so that will also help.”
Cafe worker Vik Chandla, 29, added: “Alcohol leads to conflict.
“Digbeth has a good energy about it, but people see it’s booming and come here with their b ***** t. It takes away the spirit and essence of the place.”
A worker at a local convenience store said: “I know the locals, especially some of the younger families, might be scared.
“A lot of people are going out and getting really drunk after two years of lockdown. I hope things can get better, especially before the Commonwealth Games.
“A lot of attention will be on Birmingham this summer.”
A local at nearby Hennesseys pub said: “There are more people who have come from Broad Street and bring the trouble with them.
“The fights and the stabbings used to happen there.”
Several buildings are set to be demolished to make way for a mammoth redevelopment scheme in Digbeth over the next 15 years.
Plans are now in place to create 2,000 new homes, a sky park, a nightclub and more.
It follows news that a TV new production studio – Digbeth Loc – where the Peaky Blinders film is set to be shot next year, is to be created in the quarter. Plans by, Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight were unveiled in March. It will also be home to the BBC’s MasterChef.