THE BEACH IS BACK IN BRUM…AND IT AIN’T GREEN

23-05-2008

Birmingham’s city centre beach makes a surprise return to this summer – just weeks after officials said it was being axed.  Once again, it’s mired in controversy.

Readers will remember that last summer Brum had two competing beach attractions, one run by the local authority in Chamberlain Square, the other in the Bullring – who insisted the Council had ripped off their original idea.

As the recriminations flew, Stephen Hartland of Birmingham Civic Society joined the fray.

He spoke out against the sand in Chamberlain Square, arguing that it destroyed the “dignity” of the surrounding buildings.

After being dubbed “Lord Snooty” by The Stirrer he was (regrettably) forced to step down from his role as their spokesman on planning issues (see link here).

Friends of the Earth also condemned the beach’s sponsorship by airline bmi Baby, claiming it contradicted the city’s commitment to combating climate change (see link here).

They can be expected to be equally critical of this year’s sponsors, the airline Emirates – especially as the announcement comes just days after the Council urged citizens to “Think Global and Act Local” as part of their new Going Green campaign.

For all that, the news that the beach has had a reprieve will be welcomed by many people.

Last summer was a washout, but given a few sunny days this year, it’s sure to be a major family attraction, and make life a bit more relaxed for basking office workers in the city too.