For over 100 years, the Birmingham Civic Society has worked to make Birmingham a better place for everyone. We are a membership body made up of a wide range of volunteers who encourage community engagement and promote pride in our city.
We work across several areas based on our history and expertise to achieve this. See below for more on these areas.
If you would like to get involved in any of the work we do or think you have expertise you can share, then please do get in touch and, if you can, consider becoming a member so we can continue to make Birmingham a better place for everyone.
Encouraging people to become active citizens to showcase and contribute towards the city’s identity. We give young people a platform to create solutions and develop ideas for a brighter future.
For over 20 years, more than 37,000 pupils from schools across Birmingham have participated in Birmingham Civic Society’s “Next Generation Awards”. A free to enter project based programme that encourages pupils from secondary schools around the city to develop solutions to key issues in their communities, neighbourhoods or schools. Read our case study from 2018.
During the pandemic Birmingham Civic Society also created the “School Stars” project which promotes and celebrates the fantastic work Birmingham schools are doing to help their communities across the city.
We also support the “As One“, a campaign aimed at boosting Birmingham’s community spirit post-pandemic.
Find out more about key Citizenship projects by visiting the links below
Birmingham Civic Society takes pride in acknowledging and celebrating the people and places of historical interest that represent and shape our city.
Since the 1950s, we have erected more than 100 Blue Plaques to recognise the people that have made a significant historical contribution to the city of Birmingham. We also commemorate places of historical interest in and around the city.
Our specialist Heritage Committee, conduct expert research in consideration of all nominations. A short film has been produced to mark 100 years of Birmingham Civic Society. The film reveals how recipients of Blue Plaques are selected and how the plaques are made.
Thanks to IDM Media for producing the film which was supported by The Heritage Lottery Fund. Special thanks to members of the Heritage Committee, poet Casey Bailey and Ted McAvoy from Leander Architectural for contributions. Thanks also to PMP Consultants, The University of Birmingham and The Library of Birmingham for locations. #thecitybeautiful100
To find out more and to make a Blue Plaque nomination Submit your details here.
Find out more about key Heritage projects by visiting the links below
Consulting on Birmingham’s built environment and its effects on those who live and work in the city.
Urban planning is crucial for sustainable development and environmental preservation in cities like Birmingham. This involves helping manage things like better land use, and infrastructure to address issues such as urban sprawl, pollution, and resource depletion.
Implementing green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas not only enhance city life but also reduce carbon emissions and improves air quality. Strategic planning protects ecological habitats and aims to address climate change impact.
Prioritising sustainability and thoughtful design ensures the well-being of residents and the environment, fostering a harmonious relationship between the city and its surroundings.
Through the provision of professional, fair and constructive planning advice, we support sustainable development and promote high-quality design.
We act as a critical friend to developers, professions, the local authority, and communities. We also engage with communities to provide support in planning matters which are a cause of concern. Find out more about how we can work with you to reduce potential friction in the planning process and achieve the best overall result for the city and all its people.
Find out more about key Planning projects by visiting the links below
Birmingham Civic Society promotes and protects public art for all to enjoy.
Birmingham has a strong collection of public art across the city and we work with partners across the city to ensure it is valued as part of our heritage and future.
The Birmingham Civic Society Public Art Committee keeps a watchful eye on Birmingham’s existing public art.
The Public Art Committee was established in 2002 to oversee and protect public art in the city, including works owned by both the city and corporate entities. With a mandate from trustees, the committee works to preserve and enhance public artworks, ensuring they are recognised as an important part of the city’s heritage and future prosperity.
The committee has led successful initiatives, including the restoration of railings around the Lord Nelson statue in the Bull Ring, the refurbishment of the Joseph Sturge statue in Edgbaston (in collaboration with the Sturge family), and the removal and restoration of the Edward VII statue, which was relocated to Centenary Square in 2010.
Additionally, members of the Public Art Committee have been involved in the Birmingham Big Art Project and contributed to the development of the city’s Public Art Strategy for 2015-2019.
For more information or if you are interested in volunteering for our Public Art Committee, please email: info@royalblue-yak-374246.hostingersite.com.
Find out more about key Public Art projects by visiting the links below.
When Birmingham Trees for Life was set up 16 years ago under the enthusiastic guidance of the late Cllr Ray Hassall, tree planting was not as much a part of our community’s conscience as it is today.
The Society and BTfL wish to honour the legacy of achievements, and to preserve and develop that legacy for the people of Birmingham, therefore we are delighted that the role of the BTFL project and remaining resources have been transferred to Birmingham Tree People (BTP) CIO.
The Society is undergoing discussions with key partners and stakeholders in the region to develop a strategy and approach towards sustainability.
Watch this space and follow the Birmingham Civic Society on social media for notification of events and updates.
