50 years ago in 1976 an unusual alliance of conservationists, trade unionists, and environmentalists took shape to defend Birmingham’s Victoria Square and stop the destruction of its 19th century post office by a high-rise tower block. Pevsner’s Architectural Guide describes the campaign success as ‘a turning point’ for conservation and against overdevelopment and wholesale demolition in the city.
The Victorian Society initiated the campaign in 1972 after a proposal by the architects of London’s Centre Point to build a similar block on the Birmingham PO site. Following the 1976 visit by the Australian Green Ban leader, Jack Mundey, local building workers shop steward Pete Carter was inspired to mobilise the midlands trade union movement and prominent labour figures in support. The recently formed Birmingham Friends of the Earth enthusiastically joined in. In 1978 the developers were forced into a U-turn saving the original landmark building with low rise offices to its rear.
At this commemorative meeting, chaired by Lisa Trickett (SERA), three participants in 1976 look back to learn some lessons. Environmental politics expert Professor Fred Steward, of the 1976 Green Ban Action Committee, and community architect Joe Holyoak, a leading figure, then and now, in the Victorian Society revisit the campaign and reflect on its relevance for today. Environmental champion, Val Stevens, of Birmingham Friends of the Earth in 1976 shares her insights.
New findings from recently opened archives will be presented which show the national significance of this local struggle and how high the stakes were for developers and citizens at the time. The victory led to lasting enhancement of surviving parts of the Victorian city through conservation areas and environmental protection.
Organised by Birmingham SERA
