I have stepped into the dispute and as a retired construction professional and local resident, I wrote to our ward councillors (Izzy Knowles and Philip Mills) objecting to the sale. I highlighted three main concerns:
- The 1982 Charity Commission trust – which obligates the council to maintain the building for the benefit of Birmingham's inhabitants, for education, recreation, and leisure time occupation.
- 45 years of council neglect – the building has been allowed to fall into serious disrepair while in the council's custodianship, which I consider a dereliction of duty for a listed heritage asset.
- The community value already being delivered – entirely by unpaid volunteers running a food bank, charity shop, music therapy, mental health hub, arts and crafts space, and advice centre.
My email also listed several heritage bodies (Historic England, Architectural Heritage Fund, West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust, and others) that stand ready to help – if the council engages them.
To my surprise, I received a detailed response from Councillor Phil Davis, who is Chair of the Trusts & Charities Committee and the council's appointed Heritage Champion.
He acknowledged the council's "long-term neglect of basic maintenance" and the impact of staffing cuts since 2010. He also confirmed that the Trusts & Charities Committee is now seeking a grant from Historic England to fund a full condition survey of the building, to establish the cost of restoration.
He invited local partner organisations to come forward to develop a restoration project – and I have since heard from Councillor Izzy Knowles, who has offered to meet directly with the Moseley Road Community Conservation Trust to learn about their plans and how she can support them.
Where things stand now:
The council is not (yet) committed to a sale – but "disposal" remains on the table.
I have pressed Cllr Davis to confirm in writing that no private commercial sale is being considered, and that a long-term community lease at a peppercorn rent is the preferred outcome.
I have also asked him to convene a meeting between the Trusts & Charities Committee, council property officers, Historic England, and community representatives – and to state clearly who will take responsibility after he steps down at the end of this month.
I will continue to post updates as I receive them. This is not over – but for the first time in years, the council is being asked publicly to account for its neglect.
If anyone has direct contact with the Moseley Road Community Conservation Trust, please let me know – their email appears to be inactive, and I'd like to ensure they receive Councillor Knowles's meeting offer.
