The Balsall Heathan - St. Paul's Community Trust

Balsall Heath
Through Time
By Chris Sutton
Val Hart’s new book on Balsall Heath has just been published.
“Balsall Heath Through Time” contrasts then and now pictures
of the area showcasing some of the major changes that have
taken place since 1939. The area suffered many difficulties
and challenges, starting with the extensive bomb damage
of the Second World War leading into a spiral of decay and
decline. The painful period of redevelopment under Urban
Renewal and a changing population have contributed to the
post-war changes. We even experienced a tornado in 2005
which changed the landscape in minutes!
Many of the pages contain then and now views of street scenes.
Most of the old photographs have been treated with a sepia
tone for uniformity which has greatly enhanced their visual
appeal. Comparing them to the now photographs in colour is
fascinating. Those with landmarks which are present in both
photographs have an immediate contrast that works well.
Those where the scene has changed almost beyond recognition
offer a different
charm in
c o m p a r i n g
the change of
building and
business.
C l e v e r l y
though, the
book has
a different
perspective of
changing times
by contrasting
old and current
images of the
police, the
carnival or a
shopkeeper at
work etc. These
contribute a lot
to showing how the makeup of the local area has changed,
and continues to change, but always a community at work
and play.
The book is available to buy for the princely price of £14.99.
If you would like a copy then why not pop down to St. Paul’s
School on Hertford Street or any good book shop. If you
would like to take advantage of some free postage then send
a cheque made payable to ‘The Balsall Heath Local History
Society’ to Chris Sutton, St. Pauls’ Community Development
Trust, Hertford Street, Birmingham, B12 8NJ.