Balsall Heath Through Time

This fascinating selection of photographs traces some of the many ways in which Balsall Heath has changed and developed over the last century.

Balsall Heath is an inner city area of Birmingham, which developed rapidly in the nineteenth century. By 1939 it was densely populated but with a marked sense of community. Since then it has suffered many difficulties and challenges including: extensive bomb damage in the Second World War followed by a spiral of decline; a painful period of redevelopment under Urban Renewal; a changing population; large scale road schemes; and a tornado literally ripping through in 2005. This book illustrates some of the major changes that have taken place since 1939. Some of our older buildings remain, some have been adapted for different uses and now there are also new schools, health centres, businesses, houses and community centres as well as green spaces. Balsall Heath today is a vibrant example of urban regeneration. Thanks to faith organisations, voluntary agencies and housing associations, this is an attractive and diverse community.