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Elliott Brown Transport
24 Mar 2021 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

Motor Museum at the Black Country Living Museum

Returning to the visit of the distant past from August 2011. This time we take a look at the Motor Museum at the Black Country Living Museum. A collection of vintage cars and motorbikes and other vehicles. It is Bradburn & Wedge Ltd, a car showroom displaying a collection of vintage vehicles, all manufactured around the Black Country. Such as Bean, Westfield, Sunbeam, Guy and AJS.

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Motor Museum at the Black Country Living Museum





Returning to the visit of the distant past from August 2011. This time we take a look at the Motor Museum at the Black Country Living Museum. A collection of vintage cars and motorbikes and other vehicles. It is Bradburn & Wedge Ltd, a car showroom displaying a collection of vintage vehicles, all manufactured around the Black Country. Such as Bean, Westfield, Sunbeam, Guy and AJS.


The Vehicle Display at the Black Country Living Museum

In the building that houses the Vehicle Display at the Black Country Living Museum, it holds their collection of Black Country manufactured cars and motorcycles. Also commercial vehicles. From Bean to Westfield. From Sunbeam to Diamond. From Guy to AJS.  It has the appearance of a 1950s garage. Based on the car showrooms of local company, Bradburn and Wedge. The company was founded in 1918, when William Howard Bradburn joined with Harry Wedge.

 

The photos in the gallery below, taken during a visit to the Black Country Living Museum in August 2011. While they are still closed on the third lockdown, enjoy this digital post.

 

Sunbeam motorcycle and Guy Fire Engine

On the left is a couple of motorcycles, including a Sunbeam. The one in the middle is a  1918 French Army Model. On the right is a Guy Fire Engine dating from 1924.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Brevitt's

Seen here is an old commercial van. This was General Carriers, J. Brevitt of Willenhall, Staffordshire (now West Midlands).

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Collection of vintage motorcycles made in the Black Country

Here we see a collection of old motorcycles. Mostly Sunbeam's. Some are A.J.S motorcycles. Most are T.T. Model's.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (13).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The motorcycle closest to the camera was numbered 13 in the collection.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (14).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Number 2 in the collection in the middle.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (15).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Another view of number 13, towards a car that looks like it dates to the 1990s, and the Brevitt's van.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (16).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

 

Collection of vintage motorcars made in the Black Country

 

1903 Sunbeam

Entering the museum, the first cars I see near the door. The yellow motor is a 1903 Sunbeam 10/12 HP. car.

In the middle is a 1912 Star Victoria. To the far left is the General Carriers - J. Brevitt van.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Close up look at the yellow Sunbeam made in 1903.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

1912 Star Victoria

A close up look at the dark red Star Victoria motor made in 1912.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

1923 Bean 14 Tourer

Next up is a Bean 14 Tourer. It was made by A. Harper, Sons & Bean in 1923.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

1934 Sunbeam Dawn

The dark green car is a Sunbeam Dawn. Built in July 1934. It was sold to a Dr. Hilliard in September 1934 (who lived in Taunton). He owned it for 26 years. Since then it has resided in the West Midlands.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

1930 A.J.S. Tourer

Next we have a 1930 A.J.S. Tourer (A.J.S. Coachbuilt 2-Seater). It was made by A.J. Stevens & Company Limited. The chassis was built by John Thompson Motor pressings at Bilston.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (8).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

1931 Star Coupe

The following motor is a 1931 Star Coupe. Built by the Star Motor Company of Wolverhampton. The company was taken over by Guy Motors of Wolverhampton in 1928.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (9).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Old motors in a state of repair

Various old motors in a state of repair as they were back in the summer of 2011. Probably all date to the 1930s (or earlier).

 

There was no signs in the window at the time, and even with Google Lens, now in 2021, is a bit hard to tell what model this motor is. Plus the engine was missing at the time.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (10).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Possibly a 1931 Alvis in the photo below.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (11).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

This motor might be a Buton. Cannot find any more details.

dndimg alt="Black Country Living Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCLM MM (Aug 2011) (12).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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Elliott Brown Health & wellbeing
14 Jan 2021 - Elliott Brown
Inspiration

When the Air Ambulance flies patients to hospitals in Birmingham

At least three Air Ambulance services fly to the hospitals in Birmingham, over the last decade or so. The main one of course is the Midlands Air Ambulance (red helicopter). There is also the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance (yellow helicopter). Plus sometimes the Wales Air Ambulance (red helicopter with green). They go to either Birmingham Children's Hospital or QEHB.

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When the Air Ambulance flies patients to hospitals in Birmingham





At least three Air Ambulance services fly to the hospitals in Birmingham, over the last decade or so. The main one of course is the Midlands Air Ambulance (red helicopter). There is also the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance (yellow helicopter). Plus sometimes the Wales Air Ambulance (red helicopter with green). They go to either Birmingham Children's Hospital or QEHB.


Midlands Air Ambulance

It was during May 2011, when I got my first photo of the Midlands Air Ambulance. It was on the helipad near James Watt Queensway. On one of my many walks from work to get some lunch, saw it as I came off Aston Street (Aston University). Only had my then mobile on me. Police usually stop all traffic around the area. Including Corporation Street and at the Birmingham Children's Hospital on Steelhouse Lane.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (May 2011).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The next time I saw it was around April 2013. Again mobile shots as I didn't want to take my then big camera to work with me at the time. This view of the Midlands Air Ambulance from Ryder Street.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Apr 2013) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Crossed over the lights on James Watt Queensway and got this view towards the Birmingham Children's Hospital.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Apr 2013) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Caught it taking off as I walked back to work via the Aston University grounds. Corporation Street to the left.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Apr 2013) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Midlands Air Ambulance was on it's way as seen from James Watt Queensway. I think this was near a bus stop. The new Aston University student accommodation phase 2 was under construction at the time, and the old Stafford Tower would not get demolished until 2014.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Apr 2013) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

In July 2014, I saw the Midlands Air Ambulance from the Aston Webb Boulevard in Selly Oak (the Selly Oak Bypass). It was heading towards the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Jul 2014).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

During April 2017, on a walk down the Merritt's Brook Greenway in Northfield. Saw the Midlands Air Ambulance fly overhead. I was near Meadow Brook at the time. This was not too far from Ley Hill Park.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Apr 2017).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

In December 2017, I saw this Midlands Air Ambulance heading to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Dec 2017) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Would assume the Midlands Air Ambulance was heading to the helipad, although I've never seen it myself.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Dec 2017) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

This one is G-OMAA. It is a Airbus Helicopters H135. It is operated by Babcock MCS Onshore.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Dec 2017) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Saw the Midlands Air Ambulance again, this time during July 2018. The view from near the Bourn Brook Walkway in Harborne and I was on Arosa Drive at the time. Was walking to Quinton Road. It was G-OMAA again.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance (Jul 2018).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

In May 2019, near The Bull Ring Indoor Market, was a Midlands Air Ambulance car (7064), next to a West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust ambulance (4323). They were seen from Edgbaston Street and Gloucester Street, also near the Bull Ring Outdoor Market (the Rag Market is to the left off camera).

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance car" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance car (May 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A few months later, during August 2019, and I was in the Library of Birmingham, getting views from the Secret Garden. When I zoomed down to Bridge Street between Arena Central and the Hyatt Regency Birmingham, and saw the Midlands Air Ambulance car (7064) again. That was the year when the Westside Metro Extension to Centenary Square was getting completed. Library Tram Stop opened here by December 2019.

dndimg alt="Midlands Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Midlands Air Ambulance car (Aug 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance

I first saw the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance in February 2012. I was on Moor Street Queensway, and had my then bridge camera on me, so got some decent views. It was near Hotel La Tour and the McLaren Building, heading to the helipad at Birmingham Children's Hospital.

dndimg alt="Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WNAA (Feb 2012) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Seen here passing the McLaren Building. Years before Exchange Square was built they could fly around here, but this route is no longer possible for Air Ambulances.

dndimg alt="Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WNAA (Feb 2012) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

In August 2013 I saw the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance on the helipad from James Watt Queensway. Again a mobile shot, on one of my lunchtime walks from work to get lunch. As per usual, the Police sealed off all the surrounding roads, as the paramedics took the patient to the Birmingham Children's Hospital.

dndimg alt="Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WNAA (Aug 2013).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Wales Air Ambulance

I first saw the Wales Air Ambulance landed on the helipad at Birmingham Children's Hospital from James Watt Queensway during November 2014. This one is a bit rare coming to Birmingham. The Teenage Cancer Trust building is behind.

dndimg alt="Wales Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Wales Air Ambulance (Nov 2014).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The last time I saw the Wales Air Ambulance was from Bournville during September 2019. I was on Oak Tree Lane, walking from Selly Manor to the Serbian Orthodox Church during Birmingham Heritage Week. I haven't seen this helicopter again since then.

dndimg alt="Wales Air Ambulance" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Wales Air Ambulance (Sept 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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Elliott Brown Transport
31 Dec 2020 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

The Westside Metro Extension on Broad Street

Despite the pandemic and multiple lockdowns, there has been a lot ot progress on the Westside Metro Extension from Centenary Square towards the Hagley Road, just beyond Five Ways in Edgbaston. Here we will look at the building of it from April 2015 to December 2020 on Broad Street with gaps from Feb to July 2020 and Nov 2020 due to the lockdowns.

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The Westside Metro Extension on Broad Street





Despite the pandemic and multiple lockdowns, there has been a lot ot progress on the Westside Metro Extension from Centenary Square towards the Hagley Road, just beyond Five Ways in Edgbaston. Here we will look at the building of it from April 2015 to December 2020 on Broad Street with gaps from Feb to July 2020 and Nov 2020 due to the lockdowns.


Westside Metro Extension on Broad Street

Most progress was done during the various lockdowns in 2020. Especially in the months where I was unable to travel to the City Centre (until I had to go back to work in July). I also missed November (2nd lockdown, until I went back to work). Didn't really get around to checking the extension out again until late December 2020.

They have started to install Brindleyplace Tram Stop. I had a walk down on Broad Street on Christmas Eve to see it.

Enjoy this photo gallery from April 2015 to December 2020. Track laying began at the end of 2019, and they made a lot of progress during 2020, while Westside was quiet.

25th April 2015.

In April 2015, early signs on Broad Street of utility works between the future site of The Bank and The Mercian.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Apr 2015) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A lorry and van from the National Grid were on site in front of Zara's starting to move the undeground pipes and cables.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Apr 2015) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

5th April 2017.

Just under the link bridge from the Hyatt to Symphony Hall. More utility diverence works. This time by Pier (UK) Ltd.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Apr 2017).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

10th February 2018.

This view of Broad Street zoomed in from the Library of Birmingham's Secret Garden. Buses were still going up and down Broad Street at the time. This was close to Lee Longlands and Novotel.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2018).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

15th February 2018.

Views from the top deck of the X10 NXWM Platinum bus, emerging from the Five Ways Underpass near the Five Ways Complex.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2018) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Was a lot of traffic here due to the roadworks close to Pryzm.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2018) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Traffic was diverted around to the right, with temporary traffic lights. Welcome to the City Centre.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2018) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It's hard to imagine Broad Street like this now, as it's been closed to traffic since 2019.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2018) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was even a big hole in the road near Uber, at the corner of Ryland Street.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2018) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

26th March 2018.

I was on a no 23 NXWM Platinum bus on the top deck, while the 24 was in front. Cones in the middle of the road, while more utilities were diverted near the O Bar.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (March 2018).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Near the end of Broad Street approaching Centenary Square, and about to go under the link bridge from Symphony Hall to the Hyatt Regency Birmingham. This view would change a lot in the follow two years.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (March 2018) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

21st December 2019.

View from the no 24 National Express West Midlands Platinum bus from the top deck, looking towards Broad Street from Five Ways Island. Tracks had already been laid in the Five Ways underpass from Hagley Road to Broad Street.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Extension" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Dec 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

3rd February 2020.

The road had been dug up and was gates at certain sections, near where pedestrians could cross the road. This was near the Bierkeller Entertainment Complex towards the Five Ways Complex.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

22nd February 2020.

The footpath near Symphony Hall was closed, you had to cross through the temporary path towards the Hyatt Regency Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Between Regency Wharf and Symphony Hall, it looked like a warzone! No road surface.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2020) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Towards Centenary Square, you can see Library Tram Stop in the distance.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Feb 2020) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

14th July 2020.

First time back on Broad Street for about 4 months due to the first lockdown (I'd gone back to work). Tram tracks had been laid near Reflex '80s Bar (The Crown), Walkabout and towards The Brasshouse.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Jul 2020) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

25th July 2020.

Tracks going all the way past Cineworld on Broad Street, down into the underpass below Five Ways Island.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Jul 2020) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The other side of the fence up Broad Street past the Five Ways Complex, towards The Bank, The Mercian and the Hampton by Hilton Hotel (Cumberland House).

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Jul 2020) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

29th August 2020.

Near Regency Wharf and the Solomon Cutler Wetherspoon. The road surface had yet to be filled up.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Aug 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

12th September 2020.

You could now walk down the middle of Broad Street. They were now doing the paving in front of the O Bar and Walkabout. As well as the paving on the Black Sabbath Bridge.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Sept 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Near the Solomon Cutler Wetherspoon at Regency Wharf. You could walk over part of the track that goes towards Five Ways.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Sept 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

16th September 2020.

Now you can see the track that was installed to connect to the end of the current line at Library Tram Stop.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Sept 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From Centenary Square at Library Tram Stop, where the tracks are connected to the existing line.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Sept 2020) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

19th October 2020.

Near Brindleyplace, Free Radio and Popworld.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The tracks and the road surface were more or less complete near the Five Ways Complex.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

25th October 2020.

My last major walk of the Westside Metro extension before the 2nd lockdown was announced. Seen here near Cineworld (which had closed down again) and Pryzm at the Five Ways Complex.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The freshly laid road surface not far from Revolution.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Autumn leaves on the tracks near Dil Bar Indian Restaurant.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Paving works between Symphony Hall and the Solomon Cutler at Regency Wharf. You could walk down the tracks.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

They had already started to lay bricks on the new tracks near Centenary Square, with this view of the Library of Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

They had made a lot of progress since my previous update of this view, looked almost finished.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St (Oct 2020) (11).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

19th December 2020.

Headed to the Black Sabbath Bridge, as the Black Sabbath Bench is now back in place. Brickwork towards Walkabout and O Bar is now complete.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge 19122020 (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Looking towards The Brasshouse and Three Brindleyplace. All it needs now is the four Broad Street Walk of Stars of the Black Sabbath members to be laid, but that would mean removing the newly laid bricks!

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge 19122020 (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

24th December 2020. 

The view on Broad Street towards Five Ways. Cineworld has been closed since the middle of October. Buses have to divert down Ryland Street.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Similar to the October view, but all the autumn leaves have long since been cleared up.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Towards the so called Broad Street Cluster.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There is the usual shutdown over the Christmas holidays.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Can walk down the middle of the tracks past Novotel and Travelodge.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

First view of Brindleyplace Tram Stop near Free Radio and Popworld.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (9).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The start of the building of the tram platforms near Brindleyplace.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (11).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Towards the Black Sabbath Bridge with what was The Crown ('80s Reflex Bar) and The ICC.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (13).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A lot of strong winter sunshine on Broad Street, was close to Walkabout here.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (14).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Looking back at the Black Sabbath Bridge.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (16).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Towards Centenary Square, the link bridge from Symphony Hall to the Hyatt.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (17).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From just in front of Library Tram Stop, the Westside Metro extension to Five Ways starts here.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro Broad St" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Broad St 24122020 (18).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

27th December 2020.

View of Broad Street from Five Ways Island on the no 24 NXWM Platinum bus towards the so called Broad Street Cluster. Tracks below emerging from the Five Ways underpass. I expect they will build a tram stop near Cineworld sometime in 2021.

dndimg alt="Broad St Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Five Ways Broad St Metro Ext 27122020.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Also check out my Hagley Road, Edgbaston post .

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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120 passion points
Elliott Brown Transport
31 Dec 2020 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

The Westside Metro Extension on Hagley Road, Edgbaston

The tail end of the Westside Metro extension is being built at Hagley Road in Edgbaston, just beyond Five Ways. It goes past the Morrisons supermarket and Starbucks Coffee and will end outside of the refurbished Fifty4 Hagley Road. As of late December 2020, they have laid the tracks but yet to build up the road or pavement surface around most of it. Photo gallery from 2017 - 2020.

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The Westside Metro Extension on Hagley Road, Edgbaston





The tail end of the Westside Metro extension is being built at Hagley Road in Edgbaston, just beyond Five Ways. It goes past the Morrisons supermarket and Starbucks Coffee and will end outside of the refurbished Fifty4 Hagley Road. As of late December 2020, they have laid the tracks but yet to build up the road or pavement surface around most of it. Photo gallery from 2017 - 2020.


Westside Metro Extension on Hagley Road

One day from the end of 2021 onwards, West Midlands Metro trams will emerge from the Five Ways underpass, coming from Broad Street. Then will come to the end of the extension on Hagley Road in Edgbaston, this takes it past the Morrisons supermarket, with Starbucks Coffee at the end. But will end at the tram stop that will be built outside of Fifty4 Hagley Road.

The Five Ways underpass has been closed to all traffic since 2019, and they have to go on a diversion around Five Ways Island.

Beyond the end of the line, it was proposed that Sprint would continue down Hagley Road, but not sure what has happened to that. It would take a very long time to extend the line even further (as far as Bearwood and Quinton), but that seems unlikely for now.

1st October 2017.

The view from the wide pavement outside of Tricorn House. I thought they could built the line here (at the time). View towards Morrisons and Fifty4 Hagley Road, near where the line would eventually be built in 2020.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro ext Hagley Rd" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Hagley Rd (Oct 2017) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

But they would eventually build the extension outside of Morrisons towards Starbucks Coffee.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro ext Hagley Rd" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Hagley Rd (Oct 2017) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

You can see how wide the pavement was at the time at this side of Hagley Road back in 2017. The bus stops, lampposts, etc would all have to go.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro ext Hagley Rd" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Westside Metro Ext Hagley Rd (Oct 2017) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A view towards the offices at Fifty4 Hagley Road. Just some barriers on the pavement. Trees and grass that would have to go.

dndimg alt="Westside Metro ext Hagley Rd" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Oct 2017).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

15th February 2018.

A bus ride from the top deck of the X10 NXWM Platinum bus, as it passed Morrisons and the Marriott Hotel (on the right).

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Feb 2018) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Cones in the middle of the road. Opposite was also a Pizza Hut Delivery place for take away.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Feb 2018) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The bus leaves Hagley Road, heading down the Five Ways Underpass towards Broad Street.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Feb 2018) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was a digital billboard that you can see as you head under Five Ways Island.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Feb 2018) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

View from the bus in the Five Ways Underpass. A view runners of the Great Birmingham Run used to have until a few years ago. Broad Street is at the end of the white light!

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Feb 2018) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

29th June 2019.

The view from the top of Hagley Road. The Five Ways Underpass to the left. It would be hard to get views of the Metro extension around the tunnel if you were on the pavement, especially with traffic going past.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Jun 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

21st December 2019.

One way to see a view of the tram tracks being laid was from the top deck of a bus going around Five Ways Island. This view towards Hagley Road past The Lansdowne, early track laying progress. This was taken from the top deck of the no 24 NXWM Platinum bus. By now going on a diversion to the City Centre.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

23rd December 2019.

Saw these pink Midland Metro Alliance barriers just beyond Morrisons on the Hagley Road.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was also some pink Midland Metro Alliance barriers in front of Fifty4 Hagley Road. All of that grass and young trees have been removed for the extension in the year since.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

4th January 2020.

A view of the Five Ways Underpass with the tracks that had been laid. This was the view zoomed in from the window at Morrisons Cafe. This was my last photo of the extension on Hagley Road before the pandemic was declared, and we had those lockdowns and restrictions.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Jan 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

31st July 2020.

With restrictions eased by the summer, I was back to work in the middle of July. On a day off I headed towards the Hagley Road on a warm day to see The Two Towers again. Was lots of cones and barriers on the right.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Jul 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was also a lot of traffic trying to get past Fifty4 Hagley Road. As only one lane was open.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Jul 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

25th October 2020.

I heard that the crossing on the Hagley Road near Starbucks was closed, so that day I went to have a drink and toastie inside of Starbucks. Then got these photos of the tracks that had been laid. A bit awkward with the fences in the way.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Oct 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Completed tracks emerging from the Five Ways underpass onto the Hagley Road, in from of Tricorn House and Cobalt Square.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Oct 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was a bus stop in use on the left, but all other traffic had to go to the right.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Oct 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

24th December 2020.

Christmas Eve, and I got off the no 1 bus on Highfield Road, and walked to Hagley Road to see the latest progress of the extension.  Starting from Fifty4 Hagley Road. This was near the old Birmingham 1 mile sign.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Bit of a mess outside of Fifty4 Hagley Road, but there is tracks laid just up ahead.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The tracks that have been installed in front of Barclays, towards Morrisons.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Cross over tracks just beyond Starbucks. Bright sunshine.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A path has been built towards Starbucks Coffee, with bricks in the middle. I'm not sure if they were open for takeaway or not.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Tracks in the direction of Fifty4 Hagley Road, past Barclays. You can see the cross over tracks. A lot of litter needs to be picked up when they resume in January 2021.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The tracks towards Morrisons. This was the wide pavement. Trees on the right survive next to the dry cleaning place.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Last photo, of water logged tracks that come out of the Five Ways underpass. With traffic waiting on the Hagley Road, having just come on from Five Ways Island.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Metro Ext (Dec 2020) (8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

27th December 2020.

The day after Boxing Day, I got the bus to Harborne, then caught a no 24 NXWM Platinum bus from Harborne Road, Edgbaston. Got the updated view of the tram tracks going in and out of the Five Ways underpass from Five Ways Island.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Five Ways Metro Ext 27122020 (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The bus stopped at traffic lights, so was able to get a second view. The tracks heading towards Morrisons and Fifty4 Hagley Road. Seems to be concrete barriers in the middle for some reason.

dndimg alt="Hagley Rd Metro Ext" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hagley Rd Five Ways Metro Ext 27122020 (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

See also my Broad Street post.

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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Elliott Brown Transport
23 Nov 2020 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

Car2Go all over Birmingham back in 2013 to 2014

Car2Go was a car hire scheme in Birmingham during 2013 to 2014. Using SmartCar's. With slogans on the doors such as "Brum Brummie" or "Free Parking" etc. Users could use an app which they would pay for the use. Use the GPS to locate one and drive around the City. Didn't last more than 12 months though. From May 2013 to May 2014. Was based on was on Fleet Street.

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Car2Go all over Birmingham back in 2013 to 2014





Car2Go was a car hire scheme in Birmingham during 2013 to 2014. Using SmartCar's. With slogans on the doors such as "Brum Brummie" or "Free Parking" etc. Users could use an app which they would pay for the use. Use the GPS to locate one and drive around the City. Didn't last more than 12 months though. From May 2013 to May 2014. Was based on was on Fleet Street.


Car2Go

Coming to Birmingham in May 2013, all of a sudden, there was these Car2Go SmartCar's parked all over the City. They were available all over the City. No fixed designation bays, just jump in and drive off. Free parking on any street pay and display bay (but sometimes parking wardens wouldn't know and would put yellow parking tickets on them). One off registration fee was £29.90 (at the time). Register once, drive anywhere. All inclusive price plans. There was different prices depending on how long you used them.

They were based in offices on Fleet Street, close to the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal. But this scheme wasn't to last, and by the late spring of 2014, Car2Go pulled out of Birmingham, never to return.

 

JUMP IN DRIVE OFF

Date: May 2013.

Location: Woodcock Street outside of Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Sports Centre at Aston University.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Woodcock St (May 2013) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: August 2013.

Location: Gas Street.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Gas St (Aug 2013).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: August 2013.

Location: Alcester Road, Moseley Village.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Alcester Rd Moseley (Aug 2013).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: February 2014.

Location: Reservoir Road, Ladywood, on the walk towards Edgbaston Reservoir.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Reservoir Rd Ladywood (Feb 2014).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

BRUM BRUMMIE

Date: May 2013.

Location: Woodbrooke Road, Bournville near The Valley Parkway.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Woodbrooke Rd Bournville (May 2013) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: June 2013.

Location: Fleet Street outside of the then Car2Go offices.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Fleet St (June 2013).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: September 2013.

Location: Floodgate Street, Digbeth. Note the yellow parking ticket. Was it really free parking then?

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Floodgate St Digbeth (Sept 2013) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: May 2014.

Location: Edmund Street. The last ever photo of a Car2Go SmartCar that I would take before they left Birmingham for good.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Edmund St (May 2014).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

FREE PARKING

Date: May 2013:

Location: Corporation Street, in the Steelhouse Conservation Area near the courts.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Corporation St (May 2013).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: June 2013.

Location: Hazelwell Fordrough, Stirchley.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Hazelwell Fordrough (June 2013).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: July 2013.

Location: Lionel Street, Jewellery Quarter. Near the Great Charles Street Queensway car park.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Lionel St (Jul 2013).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: August 2013.

Location: Brunel Street. Near Brunel Street Car Park (now called Town Hall Car Park).

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Brunel St (Aug 2013).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: September 2013.

Location: Bissell Street, Highgate.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Bissell St (Sept 2013) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

HELLO BIRMINGHAM

Date: May 2013.

Location: Aston Street on the Aston University Campus.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Aston St (May 2013) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: July 2013.

Location: Newhall Street, Jewellery Quarter near Newhall Square and the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Newhall St (Jul 2013).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: September 2013.

Location: Bromsgrove Street, Southside. Was close to Bristol Street.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Bromsgrove St (Sept 2013).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Date: October 2013.

Location: Calthorpe Road, Edgbaston at Five Ways.

dndimg alt="Car2Go" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Car2Go Calthorpe Rd FW (Oct 2013).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown.

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