Colmore Business District, in partnership with Jewellery Quarter BID and rental living investor/operator Moda Living, has launched an exciting new project to revitalise Livery Street subway, one of Birmingham's key city-centre pedestrian links.

The long-awaited transformation will address years of maintenance issues, anti-social behaviour, and safety concerns, aimed at enhancing the connectivity between the Colmore and Jewellery Quarter Districts.

Colmore BID spearheaded the initiative through their Outstanding Places Working Group, assembling a project group that includes Birmingham City Council (BCC), the subway's owner, to collaborate on the project. With contributions from all partners, £120,000 funding is being invested to begin the first phase of improvements.

The centrepiece of the revitalisation effort is the creative vision of renowned ceramic artist Adam Nathaniel, known for his dynamic public artworks in Bristol and Croydon. With a deep understanding of Birmingham’s rich history, Furman has been tasked with transforming the subway’s flank walls, located between the ramp and steps, into a vibrant visual experience.

After exploring the architectural and cultural history of both the Colmore and Jewellery Quarter BID areas, Adam developed an innovative ceramic tile design that gives the illusion of three-dimensionality, despite being a flat, two-dimensional surface.

The ceramic tiles, each uniquely crafted, are currently being produced by a specialist tile design studio. A precise referencing system ensures that the intricate design, from production to installation, maintains the artist's original intent.

Installation is expected to begin in Autumn 2024, with safety and wall repairs being carefully managed by Colmore BID to ensure the smooth progression of the project.

The project is located adjacent to Moda, Great Charles Street, where Moda is transforming a site left vacant for more than seventy years into more than 700 best-in-class new homes, community spaces and landscaped public realm.

Pending additional funding, phase two will focus on additional improvements to the subway’s lighting, cleanliness, and overall cosmetic appeal. These enhancements will further improve safety and accessibility, ensuring that the area becomes a welcoming thoroughfare for all.

This project represents a unique collaboration between Colmore BID, JQ BID, Moda, and Birmingham City Council, all working together to turn a long-standing issue into a positive change for the city.

With Phase one now in motion, Birmingham residents and visitors alike can look forward to a brighter, more pleasant journey through this key urban space.

For more information, please visit colmorebusinessdistrict.com.