Birmingham Eastside

The Annual BCNS walk looked at the Eastside Locks quarter that includes the
top locks of the BCN Digbeth Lock Branch that was completed during the years
1789 and 1790. Many the buildings in this area have been demolished ready
for the regeneration scheme to take place. This scheme includes a park, and
mixed use buildings that include leisure.

As tour leader I was keen to point out one surving structure on the Public
Works Depot Wharf, which fsces Belmont Row and is next to the New Cooper
Cycle Fittings building.

This structure was a single storey brick of 1939, with an upper storey
messroom (1940). A search of building plans has revealed that this was built
on the instructions of the Home Office to an ARP instruction

It was a Decontamination Centre where council workers could go after an
enemy gas attack. There was a pre war fear of gas. The building was provided
with three air locks. The entrance to an undressing chamber, showers toilets
&
washing then a second air lock to a dressing area. There was a
heating/incineration/disposal area and a third air lock for exist and for
entrance with clean clothing and tools etc.

I was wondering how many of these structures were built and how many remain.
Perhaps Canalscape members might have some knowledge.

The structure, is I believe to be demolished soon.

Ray Shill