Tag: Church Street

#365daysofbiking Old and new


September 27th – A meeting in Birmingham at lunchtime meant an afternoon meeting with a pal and a small photo expedition around the business quarter and Cathedral Square, and also chance for tea and cake.

There had been a large rainstorm, but the sun was out and the city shone like a diamond: It the soft sunlight it felt like a summer evening.

Birmingham proves as it always has that old and new architecture can coexist, clash, blend and combine to be wonderful. I adore this place.

An unexpectedly fun afternoon.

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March 27th – Heading on an errand to Burntwood, I passed through Chasetown, past the Church Street open space, where the red deer seem to take refuge when Chasewater is busy. There were a small group of nine or ten animals, loafing and grazing contentedly, seemingly oblivious to a dog running around nearby. They were not bothered by my approach, either and were content to allow me to photograph them.

I adore the old lady with the wonky ear – I’ve seen her before and she’s quite the star. I also note the herd are going into moult, hence the patchiness of their coats.

Such a joy to see these wonderful creatures.

October 28th – Coming into the town centre from the Green, I passed this old building in Church Street I’d not noticed before – shame it’s not in better condition. Does anyone know what its original function was? Tramway power houses normally say so. Perhaps it was a depot or workshop. Under the horrid primrose paint there’s some interestingly ornate brickwork there.

I was also intrigued by the corner townhouse adjacent ‘Favourite House’ – what a curious name.

October 25th – I spotted them by chance as I shot down Church Street in Chasetown – the were on the mown grass in the little park next to the school. Four red deer ladies, out for their constitutional, and looking maybe for the odd carrot.

The were awfully tolerant and posed for me happily for ages. They’re clearly very used to people being around.

The look in good health, and fine condition. So good to see them after not seeing any for ages – they’re beautiful animals.

September 6th – I don’t really want to think about this, but that’s remarkable scaffolding on the side of the former Midland Hotel on the corner of Colmore Row and Church Street in Birmingham. I can’t imagine how you even begin to erect something like that. My admiration for those who do is unbounded. Ugh.

August 21st – The Mount, a handsome, old, recently renovated house stands at the brow of the hill in Lichfield where the Burton Old Road, Church Street and Trent Valley Roads meet. It’s a wonderful looking place, and has been lovingly restored. I noticed yesterday that the original access hatches still exist in the rear chimney. These blue cast-iron doors allow access to the flue for the sweep – a once common feature, yet few survive, let alone adjacent like this. The Mount was previously used by an organisation – I think the Scouts or sea cadets – and was empty for a long while. Excellent to see the place loved again.

February 7th – On the subject of interesting architecture, in the last few days I noticed this peculiar and rather charming twin tower arrangement in the back gardens of central Darlaston, behind the handsome houses of Rectory Avenue and the Post Office. I have no idea what it is, or if it’s accessible. It’s visible across the workshop yards of Church Street, too. Does anyone know anything more about this?