‘We feel like it’s us repaying Birmingham’s debt’

Four years after the school’s demolition, the land is perhaps symbolic of a wider malaise – at least when it comes to regeneration.

Hundreds of new social homes, and the demolition of six 1960s tower blocks, are all in the works, at least somewhere. Cabinet approval was granted as far back as 2018 and there are few spades in the ground, although a “masterplan” is being prepared.

But everything has different context since the council formally announced last year it could no longer balance its budget due to a gigantic financial black hole.

To claw its way back from effective bankruptcy, the authority has had to overhaul what it offers, while charging residents more.

“A lot of people see it as we’re repaying their debt,” said Laura Girling, an ex-pupil at Baverstock Academy, who has a child with special educational needs.

“[Residents] need stuff round here, there’s nothing here for anybody.”