Changing Digbeth, December, 2025

Digbeth Photography and Constant Change

There is one certainty in Birmingham: Digbeth always changes. For anyone interested in Digbeth photography, this makes the area endlessly fascinating. New buildings appear, artwork evolves, and the streets never look the same from one visit to the next.

New Buildings Transforming Digbeth

One of the most noticeable recent developments is the new block of flats being built opposite the Custard Factory. The building stands on the former site of the old Peugeot Garage and Irish Centre. From a photography point of view, this construction is already changing sightlines and creating new contrasts between old and new Digbeth. We wait and see if these contrasts are really beneficial to the area.

Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
Cranes overlook Digbeth

As more people live closer to the city centre, Digbeth continues to evolve into a place where work, culture, and residential life sit side by side.

Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
Digbeth adds extra colour to where we live. @MrPenfold

Street Art Through a Photographer’s Lens

For Digbeth photography, the street art is a major draw. New shops and restaurants continue to open, while the artwork on the walls constantly changes. Because there are only a limited number of spaces, older murals are often painted over to make way for new designs. Some murals stay the same.

Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
A classic mural still remains @philthblake

Fresh graffiti now sits alongside long-standing pieces. In some areas, heavy tagging covers earlier murals in a more random style. Even so, bold colours and striking shapes continue to dominate, making Digbeth a living canvas for urban photography.

Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
Love this artwork from @miscfit
Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
Figure in the Archway.
Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
Arch reflections (artists unknown)

Photographing a Changing District

This post is a roundup of some of the new scenes and artwork I’ve photographed recently. Wherever possible, I’ve credited the artists. If any credits are missing, please leave a comment and I’ll update the post.

Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
The yellow door (artwork @phithblake and @Fum.Armada
Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
Bike lineup (artist unknown)
Changing Digbeth, December, 2025
Blue mural on the walls of the Red Brick Market (artist unknown)

I’ll be back in the new year to focus once again on Digbeth photography during the blue hour, which is one of my favourite times to capture the light and shadows in this changing part of Birmingham. One thing remains true — Digbeth always changes.

Links

Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill Interchange, November 2025

Why am I so fascinated with Spaghetti Junction? Perhaps it’s the way the urban landscape blends nature with man-made geometry, or the history embedded within the structure. In an alternative life, I imagine myself travelling the motorway system, passing along the M6 and then indicating to join the Aston Expressway into Birmingham. Yet during such journeys in the car, I rarely think about what lies beneath these roads.

Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill  Interchange, November 2025
The look of an unfinished cathedral within Salford Circus.
Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill Interchange, November 2025
Movement in the underpass.

Under the concrete pillars that support the motorway network, the space resembles an incomplete cathedral, a place to worship the industry of construction workers, accompanied by the hymns of thundering traffic overhead. Cars and lorries make their presence known through constant noise and vibration. In contrast, the quiet canal network predates the junction. Around the concrete pillars, flows the River Tame and the still waters of Salford Reservoir reflect the motorway traffic. A train line also cuts through the area, all converging at what we know as Spaghetti Junction, or more formally the Gravelly Hill Interchange. The regimented concrete pillars and the patterns created by the elevated roads provide endless photographic opportunities. Inspiration is everywhere.

Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill  Interchange, November 2025
Waiting for the World Cup draw.
Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill  Interchange, November 2025
So that is where the channel changer is.
Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill  Interchange, November 2025
Careful where you tred.
Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill Interchange, November 2025
Cycling along the arches.
Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill Interchange, November 2025
Watch out for the cyclists as they speed along the towpaths.

Back in July, I visited Spaghetti Junction with a group of photographers. One of the highlights of any trip beneath the M6 is the artwork of Bill Drummond. Formerly of the KLF and now a recognised artist, Drummond has been regularly posting his work on a particular wall near the heart of the junction. I was surprised to find the artwork wall completely white. In the photo I took, one of the few pedestrians we encountered beneath Spaghetti Junction walks past the empty space. Although I was disappointed not to capture any of Drummond’s artwork, I’m intrigued to see what reappears here in the coming weeks.

Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill  Interchange, November 2025
Surveying a white wall at the iconic graffiti site under the M6.

This Spaghetti visit started with a request from a fellow photographer Nicky who knew a photographer friend who had never been to the area before. I agreed to be involved in planning such a walk and enjoyed visiting the place again. John Waine was the visiting photographer and his work is outstanding. Follow the link to see more of his work. If anyone who reads this blog and wishes to visit what lies beneath the motorway then please contact me. Depending on timing and commitments, I will be happy to show them around.

Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill Interchange, November 2025
Construction workers on a break.
Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill Interchange, November 2025
Abandoned trailer.
Spaghetti Junction, Gravelly Hill Interchange, November 2025
Best seat in the Junction.
https://damienwalmsley.com/spaghetti-junction-stories-a-photo-essay/
This has to be posted as it is one of the classic views of the walk along the canal underneath the Junction.

Finally here is an account my last visit under the Interchange and the blog includes links of previous visits.

MECC Blue Bus, Cannon Hill Park, November, 2025

Balsall Heath is an absorbing place to photograph. As part of the Balsall Heath Observation Project, I have connected with many local groups. Several individuals have kindly taken the time to walk with me around the streets of Balsall Heath and share their memories—both past and present—of the area. During these photowalks, I have photographed the surroundings and recorded their stories. I have also spoken with many residents to learn about daily life, how the community works together, and the ways people support one another.

MECC Blue Bus, Cannon Hill Park, November, 2025
The mobile citizen Advice Logo

One of the charities that has welcomed me and offered an opportunity to see their work is the MECC on Court Road. The MECC charity supports the local community by offering advice and information on a wide range of topics, including employment opportunities, education, and training. The Trust also provides access to household support funds that help vulnerable Birmingham households with essential living costs. Their website offers further details, where you can learn more about the valuable contribution they make to the Balsall Heath community.

MECC Blue Bus, Cannon Hill Park, November, 2025
Discussing the merits of the MECC

One activity that particularly interested me was the MECC bus. This “energy” bus serves as a mobile base that provides advice and information to the local community. At the invitation of Tony Fox, a volunteer with the Trust, I went to see the bus for myself. The blue MECC bus was parked in Cannon Hill Park near the gates leading to Cannon Hill Road. There I met Tony and Bashir, who were running the information centre for the day. The weather was bright and sunny, and many people stopped to speak with them as they passed by. Several members of the public showed interest, and Tony and Bashir were more than happy to engage, explain their work, and share information leaflets.

MECC Blue Bus, Cannon Hill Park, November, 2025
Tony displays the MECC uniform.

I found that we had a great deal in common, and I really enjoyed my time learning about their work. My photographs show the bus along with Tony and Bashir. The MECC charity has many aims, and if you would like to learn more, please visit their website: https://www.mecctrust.co.uk.

If you happen to see the MECC bus on your travels especially when it is in Canon Hill Park then please give Tony and Bashir a shout out. Their work is improving the wellbeing of the community.

MECC Blue Bus, Cannon Hill Park, November, 2025
The sun shines on the MECC bus.

Balsall Heath Observation Project

This blog is part of my documentary project taking place in Balsall Heath. The project is a continuation of similar work completed in Stirchley, where over several weeks in 2024 we interacted with members of the local community. The Stirchley Observation Project was very successful, and I subsequently enrolled with the same group of photographers for the Balsall Heath Observation Project. We meet at the Old Print Works on Saturdays for formal lectures and project feedback. Each of us is undertaking a different project around Balsall Heath, an area of Birmingham rich in community activity and spirit. The project is part of the PRISM photography network.

The Library of Birmingham, October 2025

I had been feeling a little jaded and in need of some new inspiration for my photography. To spark a fresh way of seeing, I decided to give myself a challenge: to photograph the Library of Birmingham without showing any books. It sounded simple, but it pushed me to look at the building differently and find views that have not already been captured a thousand times.

The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
Looking up at the patterns in the skylights.

The Library of Birmingham never fails to surprise me. Its striking architecture, spacious interiors, futuristic escalators and sweeping balconies all have a story to tell. Although it is, of course, a library filled with books, I wanted to focus on its atmosphere and design rather than what sits on the shelves.

The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
The sharp angles against the cloud filled sky.

Autumn had arrived and the leaves on the trees were a deep contrasting red colour. The outside gardens are a peaceful place to visit. Visitors to the library enjoy finding quiet spots to reflect and relax from the busy City below.

The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
The colours of Autumn against the backdrop of the library.
The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
Finding a quiet place to reflect and take time out.

For this project, I used three cameras: my Canon 5D Mark IV, my Fujifilm X100VI, and my iPhone. Each one encouraged a different way of seeing. The Canon, with its wide-angle lens, delivered crisp and detailed shots. The Fujifilm, which has a fixed 50 mm lens, performed beautifully in the softer light but required a slower, more considered approach. The iPhone proved surprisingly powerful when capturing reflections, as its lens can be placed right up against a surface to create playful and unexpected effects.

The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
A place to meet and look out over the square below.

This collection of photographs shares what I discovered on that visit. It is my attempt to show the Library of Birmingham from a new angle and to remind myself that inspiration often appears when you look at familiar places in unfamiliar ways.

The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
An example of the futuristic design of the interior.
The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
A reflective window to the outside world.
The Library of Birmingham, October 2025
Colour contrasts on the balcony.

This is not the first time that I have photographed the library and you may well enjoy this earlier account. Be warned a few library books creep into the pictures.

St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025

St Alban the Martyr Church is situated in Highgate, Birmingham. To get there, I took the No. 35 bus and then walked up the hill towards the church. Birmingham Heritage Week is a highlight of September, offering Birmingham residents the chance to visit places that are normally closed to the public or venues that many may not have considered visiting. The Church of St Alban the Martyr falls into the latter category. Anyone travelling into Birmingham will likely have seen its bell tower, which commands an impressive presence on the approach to the city.

St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
Looking upwards at the amazing ceiling details.
St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
The front row of chairs in the sunlight.

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This church had been on my list to visit as part of Birmingham Heritage Week. The doors opened for the event, and I visited on a sunny Friday afternoon. On entering, one cannot fail to be struck by the interior architecture. The high stone-vaulted ceiling was designed by J. L. Pearson, a leading 19th-century Gothic architect who also designed Truro Cathedral. Tall stone pillars rise to support the vault, creating a repeating symmetrical pattern. The ceiling is just one of the many highlights of a church rich in treasures. Even the arrangement of chairs echoes the symmetry above, reinforcing the beauty of the space. I was the only visitor at the time, free to savour the majesty of this Gothic design and to take uninterrupted photographs. The play of light through the windows and the soaring ceiling were especially captivating. Adding to the atmosphere, the church was filled with uplifting music. The organist, David Briggs, was once the organist at the church, and now, lives in New York, where he is Artist in Residence at the Cathedral of St John the Divine. He had just dropped in to practise on the church organ, on his way to Germany to give a recital. I was so fortunate to hear him play whilst I was taking photographs of the church.

St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
A view of the organ being played by David Briggs.

One of the highlights is St Patrick’s Chapel. The altar is striking, and the surrounding artwork is outstanding. Sisters Kate and Myra Bunce, associated with the Arts and Crafts movement at the turn of the 20th century, created the Bunce Altarpiece (or Reredos) that dominates the chapel. The artwork, painted by Kate Bunce, takes the form of a triptych depicting Christ, angels, and the Virgin Mary. The beaten copper frame was designed and made by Myra Bunce. I found myself drawn to this historic piece, which is now a treasured part of St Alban the Martyr Church.

St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
The Bunce Art and Craft displayed on the alter in St Patrick’s chapel.

The church community was warm and welcoming. Teas and coffees were served, questions were readily answered, and photography was encouraged. St Alban’s contribution to Birmingham Heritage Week is both valuable and memorable: rich with community history and enhanced by its remarkable architecture and artwork. This should be high on everyone’s list to visit during the Heritage week.

St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
The Church and Bell Tower.

Details

The following are a selection of details that I photographed from around the church. I hope, like me, you find them interesting.

St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
Church banners
St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
Madona and Child.
St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
Painting and candle holder.
St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
A cherub.
St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
The beautiful lectern in the form of an eagle.
St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
Postcards for sale.
St Alban the Martyr Church, Highgate, Birmingham, September 2025
Looking upwards to the stained glass windows.

This is one of several churches that I have visited during the Birmingham Heritage Open Week. I include my visit to the Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazer for your interest. I also include a link to Birmingham Heritage Week 2025.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham

Birmingham Heritage Week always reveals intriguing places to explore. Each year, the programme goes live at the end of summer, and tickets for the most popular destinations are quickly snapped up. For this year’s Birmingham Heritage week, I set my sights on two churches I had not previously visited, along with a guided walk in Birmingham.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
The front entrance.

The first of these visits took me to the Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, a striking Orthodox church situated in Bournville. Renowned for its ornate ceilings and rich decoration, the church stands proudly on a hill overlooking the area. Arriving from Bristol Road, via the number 61 bus, I made the short walk uphill to the gates, where I was warmly welcomed by a member of the congregation.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
The image of the Virgin Mary behind the alter.
The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
Close up details from the side alters.

Stepping inside, the splendour of the Byzantine design is immediately apparent. The ceiling is dominated by a powerful image of Christ, while the dome above the altar features a serene depiction of Mary. Stone pillars draw the eye across the space, emphasising the church’s harmonious proportions.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
Icons of the Madonna and Child.
The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
The balcony with details at the back of the Church.

Unlike many Western churches, the Serbian Church has few seats. This open design is characteristic of Orthodox worship and allows visitors to move freely around.  I spent much time admiring the icons and intricate details on  the walls. The murals are painted in fresco, a technique where pigment is applied directly onto wet plaster, creating luminous images that glow in the light. I found myself mesmerised, pausing often to steady my concentration so that my photographs might capture even a fraction of the beauty that was before me.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
Candles light up the Church.

The exterior holds equal charm. In the gardens, a golden crucifix stands proudly, while the church’s architectural form blends gracefully with its leafy surroundings. Time was against me, and with the church busy that day, I was unable to explore or photograph the adjacent hall—an omission I intend to rectify on a future visit.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
The side entrance to the Church.
The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
The imposing domes of the church against the sky.
The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
The crucifix in the gardens of the church.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar is a landmark building and a must see place on the Birmingham Heritage week schedule. The church rewards not only the photographer but also anyone with an interest in history, faith, or art. For those wishing to learn more, the church maintains a comprehensive website offering detailed background on its story and traditions. My own visit left a lasting impression long after I put down my camera. Enjoy the pictures.

The Serbian Church of the Holy Prince Lazar, Birmingham Heritage Week, Bournville, Birmingham
Selective colour of the red carpet in the Church.

If you enjoyed this blog then please visit my other Birmingham Heritage visits that I have done over the years

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025

The newest addition to Paradise Birmingham, Three Chamberlain Square, is close to opening. This distinctive building sits next to the historic Town Hall and is stone’s throw from Victoria square. Its exterior design incorporates natural terracotta tones, giving a warm red ochre glow to the rows of vertical lines. Walking past the building, I often wondered what it would be like to look around inside and longed to visit the terrace on the top floor.

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025
Three Chamberlain Square.

I was therefore delighted when an invitation arrived from Core, the marketing team promoting Paradise Birmingham. They were hosting a special Photographers’ Event at Three Chamberlain Square to mark World Photography Day.

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025
The BT Tower framed by the red beams.

On a warm but initially cloudy afternoon, a collective of photographers gathered in Chamberlain Square near the new building. There were many familiar faces amongst the group, and we did not have to wait long before being taken into the foyer of Three Chamberlain Square. The entrance is impressive, with a large, open multipurpose area. After a short introduction, we went straight up to the ninth floor and the terrace.

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025
The Birmingham skyline

The terracotta design was an instant hit with the photographers, and we all had to be careful not to photobomb each other’s shots. The photographic talent among the group was very high, and I knew their images would be excellent. My own thought was, try something different, easier said than done when surrounded by such skilled photographers.

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025
Inside looking out.

Reaching the ninth floor, the sun broke through the clouds. Before stepping onto the terrace, I paused to capture the light as it streamed into the room. Then it was time for the terrace itself, which offered stunning views across the city. The red support beams provided a perfect frame for iconic landmarks. I was able to capture the Octagon, BT Tower, the Rotunda, 103 Colmore Row, and the Town Hall clock, each neatly framed by the beams. Using my telephoto lens I was able to capture the street scenes below.  The terrace was undoubtedly the highlight of the visit and will be an instant favourite for those working in the building.

We then moved down to the eighth floor to view the open-plan offices. I took several pictures, and while the space itself was impressive, my eyes kept drifting to the windows. People working there will certainly not be bored—the passing trams and other activities below may prove to be quite a distraction.

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025
Colmore Row stories.

Although I had to leave before the full tour was over, the terrace remained the highlight of my photographic journey through the building. On my way back to the car, I captured a few final shots outside. What struck me most was the contrast of styles: the terracotta of Three Chamberlain Square set against the Roman revival elegance of the Town Hall, with the towering Octagon rising in the background.

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025
Different Styles

Birmingham looks splendid with its mix of bold new buildings complementing the city’s historic landmarks.  Thank you to Paradise Birmingham for allowing us to photograph this beautiful building.

Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, August 2025
Picture of me taken by Ell Brown on the terrace. Thanks Ell.

If you like tall buildings then I have highlighted more reading about my photographic visits on my blog.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025

IgersbirminghamUK organised a walk around Spaghetti Junction on a warm Saturday afternoon at the beginning of August. For this blog entry, I have 24 frames which is the number of a roll of film. These pictures were taken with either my iPhone or Fujifilm x100vi. The stories and sights under the motorway are always changing and always surprising. Enjoy this photo essay.

Figures

People move around the complex concrete structures. They look apologetic for their presence as the concrete really does enjoy its own company.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Figure in the subway
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
A walk home with the noise of cars above.

Cyclists

People move quickly on the towpath nobody wants to stay too long as they may get lost in the concrete.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Cyclist between the pillars.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
There is light in the dark that guides the cyclist.

Pillars

The main feature of the concrete structures is the pillars. Reaching to the sky they hold the roads in place. If the pillars disappear then there so will the roads.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Reaching for the sky
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
The height of the pillars dwarfs the people who dare wander next to them.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
The cathedral pillars of Salford circus.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Gaps between the Pillars.

Are you lost yet?

A line from the 25 paintings project by Bill Drummond.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
So easy to lose your way under the motorway.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
There is signage to help.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Colourful signs break through the concrete monotones.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
A scrawled sign lets you know where you are.

Traces of humanity

There are examples that humans have passed through the area.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Real Magic
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Birmingham, England
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
A smashing time.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Walk this way

Nature fights back

Nature is slowly eroding the concrete jungle. Trees and greenery have established themselves amongst the pillars.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Greenery lines the paths.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Trees in the sunlight.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Concrete vs nature standoff.

I hope you enjoyed this photo essay of my recent visits to Spaghetti Junction. If you ever have the chance to visit the area then do take up the opportunity. There are regular tours that take in Aston Reservoir and the more interesting parts of the canal network. The interchange does become very quiet at the weekends. During the week, there is construction activity focused on maintaining the pillars that are essential to holding the motorway network together. The highs and lows of a visit around the Gravelley Hill interchange are illustrated below. The highlights include the wonders of the construction and architecture. The lows are the faceless nature of the area which has areas that are not particularly inviting.

Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
The classical view of the pillars lined up along the river Rea.
Spaghetti Junction, Birmingham, August 2025
Barbed wire and undistinguished areas of the Junction.

Are you wanting to read more about Spaghetti Junction then here are more of my visits about what lies beneath the M6. I recommend starting with this blog post that sets the scene for my photo essay.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025

The passing of Ozzy Osborne leaves a large imprint on the people of Birmingham. The band Black Sabbath are very much loved and their Birmingham origins are celebrated throughout the city. Back in 1974, I remember “Paranoid” blasting out loudly through the student common room speakers. I loved the Black Sabbath album covers which stood out from others at the time with their own distinctive take on the early seventies. Even as my musical tastes moved towards glam rock, punk and new wave, I still had fondness for the distinctive Tony Iommi guitar riffs from “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid”. Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne still connect with me especially as their influences are all around Birmingham.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
The shrine to Ozzy outside the Crown pub on Station Street.

Getting caught up in the emotion around the city from the reunion concert and people gathering to honour Ozzy, I went in the day before his funeral to visit the notable Black Sabbath sites in the city and pay my respects.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
The Crown pub, Station St.

My first stop was the Crown pub often known as the birthplace of legends. Many famous bands played there including the early Black Sabbath concerts. Closed since 2014, the building is now protected by its Grade II listed status although what the future will be is uncertain. The Crown has had a lick of paint and the boarded-up windows now have pictures of the band. A small shrine has taken shape below the picture of Ozzy. There are a few candles, flowers and fan messages set out. Pedestrians entering New Street rail station glance curiously at all the commotion.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
Ozzy the Bull at New Street station.

Then there is Ozzy the Bull. Towering above the concourse of New Street Station, this animatronic sculpture was a massive success during the Commonwealth Games. Once forgotten, now restored, much like the man himself, Ozzy the Bull is a great symbol of the City.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
Ozzy’s signature on the wall in Navigation Street.

Outside the front of the station, Navigation street has attracted the City’s attention where Mr Murals, a local artist has created a striking Black Sabbath mural. Along the wall facing the station are photorealistic spray can pictures of the four band members. The Black Sabbath logo looms large beside them. Less than a month ago, the group came to look at the murals and each signed their name against their picture. The signatures have been protected with Perspex glass. The length of the street has become another shrine for Ozzy with flowers lined up against the wall.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
More floral tributes along the Black Sabbath mural.

The focus of the outpouring of grief for Ozzy was taking place at the Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street. In 2019, the city dedicated this space to the band with a bench featuring the faces of Ozzy, Tony, Geezer, and Bill. Now, the bench is transformed with flowers, tributes, hand-written notes, empty Jack Daniels bottles, and even a guitar. The tribute has taken over the pavement and security are required to keep a semblance of order. On the day of the funeral, this was the place where the hearse bearing Ozzy stopped and the family paid their respects. The news and pictures from the BBC and Rolling Stone magazine show how much he will be missed.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
This is the day before the funeral at Black Sabbath Bridge.
Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
A guitar with inscription amongst the tributes.
Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
More details of the tributes.

Next I find myself in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Here a special tribute holds centre stage. The ” Ozzy Osbourne (1948-2025): Working Class Hero” exhibition celebrates the lead singer’s astonishing career. Videos play on loop; photographs of his successful career adorn the walls. The many gold and platinum records are displayed. At the entrance, The civic book of condolence for Ozzy waits. I stood in the queue, looking up at all the artwork around waiting my turn to add my condolences.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
The working class hero exhibition.

On my way home, I pass through Victoria Square where there is an exhibition of Black Sabbath with many posters arranged to tell the history of the band that will forever be associated with Birmingham.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
The Black Sabbath poster board exhibition in Victoria Square.

Even at Selfridges, the modern temple of retail, screens shimmered with Black Sabbath’s images. Pictures of the band and Ozzy great you at the store entrance. A place is set aside to stand and watch a continual loop of the greatest Black Sabbath songs.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
Tributes to Black Sabbath.
Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
A mini theatre inside the store.

There is much to take in and the legacy of Ozzy and Black Sabbath is celebrated on the streets. He is a hero not only of the working class but everyone who looks to make a better future for themselves. Ozzy with his charismatic personality will forever symbolise the City of Birmingham.

Ozzy Osborne, Black Sabbath, Birmingham, July 2025
Ozzy at the Commonwealth Games in 2022. (picture from the Working class hero exhibition).

There are a few Ozzy images in my past blogs. See if you can spot one in this blog.

Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025

As it happened, my car windscreen needed replacing in Nechells, so I had time to explore the canals. I headed for the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal and walked along it to the lock below Holborn Hill. Turning left, I arrived at Aston train station. It is a five-minute walk from there to Spaghetti Junction and then a short descent to the Tame Valley Canal.

Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025
The classic view of the Tame Valley Canal underneath the motorway.

Repairs are currently being carried out on the supports of the motorway, and there were many workers in and around the area. This made it relatively safe to stroll around. I stopped to view the art project run by Bill Drummond, former drummer of the KLF rock group and now an influential artist. He paints a line at regular intervals on the concrete walls opposite the towpath. The line currently displayed reads, “Are you lost yet?”

Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025
Directions on the tow path

Luckily, I knew exactly where I was on the canals, and I walked further along to take pictures of the motorway pillars reflected in the canal water. There is some rubbish around, but also many opportunities for interesting photographs.

Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025
Reflections and rubbish.
Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025
Men at work.
Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025
Ongoing repair work under the motorway.
Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025
The old road and the M6 motorway.

Retracing my steps, I explored the junction where the Birmingham canals meet the Tame Valley Canal. This was also the site where most of the repair work was taking place. I then made my way to Aston Reservoir, accessing it just past a sports centre. The elevated sections of the motorway rise in the distance and overlook the water. I always find it amazing that speedboat races once took place on this small area of water.

Are you lost yet, underneath Spagetti Junction, Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, July 2025
Aston or sometimes known as Salford reservoir with the M6 link road to the Aston Expressway in the background.

I have visited the Junction several times before and here are some of my accounts of my previous visits.

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