'Birmingham is a broken mess': Passionate Brummies share what life is like in the city that declared itself bankrupt

Birmingham, once a proud and thriving metropolis, has found itself at a crossroads. Following its well-publicised financial crisis, residents are divided over what the future holds for the UK’s second city.

We published a story entitled What life is like in UK's second city that declared itself bankrupt and since then we have been inundated with comments from residents about the issues facing Birmingham.

So now we’ve taken a closer look at what Brummies want for their city - and how they feel about it at the moment as the eyes of the UK look upon it during difficult times.

For some, like Patricia McClenaghan, Birmingham remains a beloved home despite the challenges. "I have lived here all 66 years of my life, and I love Birmingham, whoever runs it, whatever happens," she said, standing by her city in the face of criticism.

Others, however, paint a bleaker picture. Malcolm Allen, once a staunch supporter, has lost faith in local leadership. "A clueless Labour council and MPs who act as if they don’t care about the city and its people," he lamented.

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Waste collection, urban decay, and inefficient spending are among the top concerns.. Meanwhile, Debbie O’Leary pointed to mismanagement in public spending.

Read more: Birmingham bin strikes at crisis point with rats and cockroaches threatening public health emergency

Carole Fallows recalls a once-vibrant city centre that has lost its charm. "I used to visit for the markets, but the last time I went, I decided it would be the last time," she admitted.

Richard Warner took a different approach, calling on individuals to take responsibility for their surroundings. "Birmingham could easily be amazing. It’s the people, not the buildings, that make a city," he argued.

Yet, the broader picture remains complex. Pauline Pallavicini pointed out that issues such as austerity, housing shortages, and social changes have shaped the city’s decline. "We should be thinking seriously about what we want our society to be," she urged.

Some, like Sukhdeep Kaur and Susan Cox, feel disillusioned, with Cox declaring, "Time to leave, I’ve had enough." Others, like Stephen Purvis, highlight safety concerns, saying, "I felt safe in the 90s. Now, I wouldn’t dream of going out in the city at night."

Christopher Ward added: “Birmingham is a broken mess.”

Despite differing views, one thing is clear - Birmingham’s people remain deeply passionate about their city. Whether it can turn its fortunes around remains to be seen.

Do you want to share your views? Get in touch at [email protected].