Balsall Heath was originally agricultural land between Moseley Village and the city of Birmingham. 1850’s expansion along Moseley road brought together parts of former Worcestershire parish (Kings Norton) to combine with the borough of Birmingham. Balsall Heath initially had a reasonably affluent population. Much of which is still be seen in the dilapidated grandeur of some of the larger houses. A railway station on Brighton Road (on the Birmingham to Bristol line) led to further expansion, and the end of the 19th century saw a proliferation of high-density small terraced houses. During the second world war Moseley road was named “bomb Alley” a particular target due to its proximity to the railway line. Following reconstruction was slow and housing fell into terrible disrepair. By the 70’s Balsall Heath had a high unemployment, appalling housing, high crime and was the City’s red light district.

The cheap housing provided an affordable option for new residents from Ireland, the Caribbean and South Asia. These new communities, formed the base for high cultural diversity we see today. Community action has driven a vision for change. Of particular note, the St Paul’s Community Development Trust (1970), the ‘Balsall Heathan’ newspaper, the carnival (1977) and the Balsall Heath City Farm (1980). More recently, the local community led to the the production of the Balsall Heath Plan. Community action, has led to recognition, including visits by a former prime minister. Most recently, Basall Heath was a finalist in the Academy of Urbanism Great Neighbourhood awards 2023 . We set out to delve into what makes Balsall Heath work as a great neighbourhood.

Neighbourhood

The neighbourhood’s character is multifaceted and sometimes unpredictable, defined by easily navigable thoroughfares interspersed with vibrant pockets of social engagement. These focal points correspond with the traditional linear street corridors that serve as primary arteries leading towards central Birmingham. However, the dominance of vehicular traffic along these routes often compromises the overall quality of the environment.

Different land uses in close proximity frequently results in both successful synergies and occasional clashes. Residential areas, while fairly consistent, are often next to or interrupted by industrial zones. Homes are typically low-rise and tightly packed, leaving little private space. As a result, public spaces, though spread out and disconnected, become important communal areas for residents to gather and relax. This provides vital communal respites within this urban tapestry.

The area exhibits a generally distinct/defined block structure, although there’s considerable variation across different sections of Basall Heath Area. It has notably higher population density compared to other parts of the city. This averages between 6 to 8 persons per household, living in low-rise properties typically spanning just 2 to 3 stories.

1. Infill development is prevalent, characterised by densely packed constructions with minimal or no garden spaces, particularly evident along streets like Runcorn Road. The architectural typologies vary significantly in both style and quality throughout the neighbourhood.

2. Many have the typical Birmingham two-story terraced houses, which remain a consistent feature.

Overall, connectivity within the area is robust, with primary thoroughfares seamlessly linked by residential streets. The experience of traversing these connections on foot or by bicycle is fluid, though without the deliberate allocation of dedicated lanes or segregation.

3. Accessibility to bus routes is convenient, with stops situated close to the main arteries, facilitating easy commuting. However, access to train lines proves more distant for the majority, with proposals in the pipeline for a new Balsall Heath station to address this gap in accessibility.

In Birmingham’s dynamic landscape, Moseley Road Swimming Baths stands as a timeless beacon amidst a blend of retail, residential, and industrial zones. The area’s fusion of Edwardian architecture lacks a structured layout, yet it thrives on its fluidity, inviting exploration at every corner.

4. Alcester Road, the scene is a patchwork of surprises, with no distinct nodes but a vibrant energy

5. The Moseley Swimming Baths, though a significant landmark, remains dormant, awaiting imminent revival.

6. Meanwhile, Ladypool Road emerges as a singular, elongated corridor of gastronomic delights, stretching along a single side of the street, with a vibrant array of restaurants.

*Shopping here is an intimate affair, a departure from the broader Birmingham experience; it’s characterised by personal connections with proprietors. Fresh produce spills onto the streets, displayed upon stalls, fostering a sense of community engagement. The pulse of communal life resonates through the nexus of religious establishments and verdant parks, offering multifaceted spaces for social interaction and recreation

A series of traditional Victorian parks, each exuding its own unique character. While these green spaces are evenly distributed throughout the area, they lack interconnectedness, existing as standalone entities interspersed among residential streets.

6. The River Rea flows along the left side of Balsall Heath, yet its presence remains largely concealed from public view, concealed beneath brutal culverts. Access to the river is limited, hindering the potential for community engagement with this natural feature.

7. Public spaces within the vicinity often serve as extensions of adjacent retail outlets, seamlessly blending with the surrounding pavements or car parks. Despite their functional integration, these spaces tend to be modest in size, lacking any distinctive design elements or dedicated upkeep efforts.

SPACE – Balsall Heath Park

Balsall Heath Park, established in 1894, embodies the timeless appeal of Victorian-era parks, blending expansive spaces with modern amenities like a playground and seating areas. However, there’s room for improvement in seamlessly integrating these elements to enhance both the park’s layout and functionality. Situated within a densely populated urban area, the park offers residents clear views of neighbouring houses while serving as a popular thoroughfare for pedestrians. Visitors come for various reasons, using the park for leisurely strolls, recreational activities, and convenient shortcuts.

The play area serves as a focal point, drawing in visitors and fostering activity. However, the park’s boundary adjacent to industrial areas creates a visual contrast that somewhat disrupts its tranquility. Informal gatherings on the grass contribute to the park’s communal atmosphere, while efforts to combat littering with multiple waste bins remain somewhat effective but not entirely successful.

STREET – Ladypool Road

In this specific area, there’s a notable concentration of socio-economic activity along one side of the street, creating a vibrant and bustling corridor. However, this high level of activity can sometimes lead to congestion and overcrowding on the pedestrian walkway. One potential solution to address this issue is to widen the pavement or sidewalk to accommodate the increased foot traffic.

STREET – Alcester Road

Amidst architectural diversity and a vibrant streetscape Alcester Road grapples with the challenge of regular informal and uncontrolled parking, adding to the congestion and occasionally disrupting the flow of traffic. Despite these challenges, the area retains a certain charm and energy, with pockets of activity and qualities that add to its dynamic allure.

SPACE – George Street Pocket Park

A small park sits to the east, surrounded by residential and industrial areas. Accessible on foot, it’s enclosed by roads with no through access on two sides. In the centre, there’s a play area, but it leaves some uncertain empty spaces around it.

The park is fenced off, with various trees around. However, its edges are quiet, with solid fencing separating it from nearby commercial units and their back gardens.

Summary

Balsall Heath may not be the typical example of a great Urban Neighbourhood. It has no ‘award-winning’ design elements, many areas are chaotic and mismatched.

So, what sets it apart? and is there anything here that can be taken into modern urban design?

Empowerment – Residents have a say in shaping their neighbourhoods future, showing how empowering communities can lead to more meaningful urban development.

Resilience – The residents of Balsall are resilient and work together, this shows how local involvement drives positive change.

Diversity – Balsall Heath is a neighbourhood of mixed cultures which adds depth richness this naturally breeds inclusivity highlighting the importance of inclusivity in urban design planning.

Adaptive Reuse – Balsall Heath has a history of adapting existing buildings creatively and retrofitting existing residential properties.

Local Economies – Scattered with independent shops and businesses Balsall Heath shows the importance of supporting local businesses and encouraging community ownership.

Active Public Areas – Although lacking in formal design, community events and interactions keep public spaces vibrant. Suggesting the importance of flexible, community-focused design.

Place Research - Balsall Heath