Historic England has released its Heritage at Risk Register for 2023.
The register is a summary of the critical health of some of England’s most historic landmarks. Used as a part of the UK Government’s official statistics, the register highlights cultural assets which are at risk through neglect, decay or development which is inappropriate for the area according to Heritage England.
Grade one listed buildings and registered parks and gardens are covered by the register, in addition to scheduled monuments, historic battlefields, protected wreck sites and conservation areas which are considered to be at risk. Grade two listed buildings of religious significance are also included in the register which began in the mid 1980s.
There are 20 Birmingham buildings at risk of being lost this year. They can be found in the city centre and across out of town neighbourhoods and include a former libray, stately home and places of worship.
Charities, owners, local councils, and Historic England have also worked together to see historic places restored, re-used, and brought back to life. These are the 20 Birmingham buildings at risk of being lost in 2023, along with Historic England’s description of the buildings and repairs needed.
1. The Red Lion Public House, Soho Road, Handsworth
Leaking roofs and windows and ingress of pigeons have caused significant problems. A new owner undertook urgent works, including repairs to roof, and gained Listed Building Consent for re-use as a public house/ restaurant. It was sold in 2016 and the new owner has plans to redevelop the site
2. Highbury Hall, Yew Tree Road, Moseley
Highbury Hall was built in 1879 as the family home of Joseph Chamberlain and designed by local architect JH Chamberlain. It is a large and ornate brick and stone house surrounded by landscaped gardens. The interior of the house is elaborate and uses a variety of different materials. Currently the ground floor is used for events, but the upper two floors are vacant. The Main Hall and Northern Range roofs were repaired in 2020. The Highbury Trust has received Stage 1 for an NLHF grant for repair and redevelopment of the hall.
3. Methodist Central Hall, Corporation Street, Birmingham city centre
. The site was purchased by new owners in early 2022. An application for conversion into several uses has been submitted to Birmingham City Council. Its condition has deteriorated following recent storms. Historic England and the Council are working with the new owners to secure emergency temporary works to halt water ingress whilst the applications are considered.
4. British Rail Goods Office, Curzon Street, Birmingham city centre
Built in 1837-8 in the Ionic style. The building is owned by the City Council and has been vacant for more than a decade. Repairs to the roof have been undertaken, but water ingress is still a problem. Renovation by a partnership including HS2 has permission and the works commenced in 2021.