Victoria Square is a historic pedestrianised public square in central Birmingham. Named in honour of Queen Victoria, this central quarter houses both the Town Hall and Council House, and is situated directly adjacent to Chamberlain Square. Each year, the square hosts several gastronomic festivals, including the internationally acclaimed Frankfurt Christmas Market.
The statue of Queen Victoria was unveiled in Victoria Square on 10th January 1901, a mere 12 days prior to her death. Originally carved out of marble by Thomas Brock, it eventually suffered erosion and in 1951 a bronze cast was made by William Bloye, which remains to this day.
Several other statues are present on the square, including the sculpture of Dhruva Mistry’s The River, colloquially known as ‘The Floozie in the Jacuzzi.’ The Iron Man has also been returned to the city after a 1,633-day hiatus. The towering, six-tonne sculpture was created by sculptor Sir Antony Gormley, and was first lowered into position at the top of New Street, close to the former Victorian post office building on 28th February 1993.
A £25 million regeneration plan has been proposed for improvements to the Birmingham metropolitan area, with proposals set to help the city prepare for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, and create a lasting legacy in the process. Improvements to the area are set to enhance visitor experience, support retail trade, and create a cleaner environment.
Upgrades to public spaces include repairing and restoring the fountain, and expanding pedestrian areas around Victoria Square.
Victoria Square will be the official finish zone for the men’s and women’s marathon events, and the T53/T54 wheelchair events taking place on Saturday 30th July. Victoria Square is also ready to host a complimentary programme of live performances, entertainment, special events and giant screens with live broadcasts of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
As Official Overlay Supporter to Birmingham 2022, GL events UK is providing temporary structures, fencing, containment, scaffolding, rigging, carpets, exhibition walling and portable toilets. Find out what is being delivered at other venues, here!
