P2 SECTION A: URBAN ISSUES AND CHALLENGES - BIRMINGHAM BIG CITY PLAN

Question 1

BCP: BACKGROUND

Answer 1

• Started 2010
• Creating over 50 000 jobs
  -> £2.1 billion to economy every year
• Providing 65 000 square meters of public space
• Providing 28 kilometers of enhanced walking+cycle routes

Question 2

BCP: EAST SIDE PARK

Answer 2

• £12 million park in Eastside (done in 2012)
• First urban park in Brummie in 125+ years
• Urban park of 6.75-acres in city center
• Urban greening (improves city’s environm)
• Provides wildlife habitats
• Improves air quality
• Serves as social place: improve mental health

Question 3

BCP: GRAND CENTRAL STATION

Answer 3

• £750 million Gateway scheme
• Aims to deliver focal point for Brummie- regenerate city center
• Opened in 2015: John Lewis anchor tenant- £150 million store in city centre
• 1000s jobs created: helps reduce unemployment in city
• Increased capacity for visitors (busiest station bar London)

Question 4

BCP: CANAL WHARF (CUBE)

Answer 4

• Last of Mailbox regeneration scheme: transforming old Royal Mail sorting office
• Cube is 17-storey building: costs $100 mil
• 244 luxury apartments + hotels, shops, offices etc
• Aesthetic: increases local value of area
• Creates jobs: multiplier effect
• High quality city center living: attracts skilled personal to city
• Nightlife scene: redevelopment of rundown canal area