Centenary Square, Birmingham

Centenary Square, situated on the north side of Broad Street in Birmingham, was established in 1989 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Birmingham's city status. Originally an industrial zone filled with small workshops and canal wharves, the area underwent significant transformation after being acquired by the council in the 1920s. Initially intended to be part of a grand civic center scheme featuring museums, council offices, a cathedral, and an opera house, this plan was largely halted by World War II, with only the Hall of Memory and part of Baskerville House completed.

Post-war efforts to revive the original grand scheme in a simplified form did not fully materialize. However, the square saw a substantial redesign in 1991 to complement the newly constructed International Convention Centre. This redesign included new paving, railings, and lamps by artist Tess Jaray, along with a fountain and several sculptures.

Significant changes occurred again with the construction of the Library of Birmingham on the square in 2013, which led to the removal of many elements from the 1991 design and the incorporation of a library amphitheater. In 2014, a competition led to another redesign of the square, with construction commencing in 2017 and completing in 2019.

Today, Centenary Square is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting major city events such as the Frankfurt Christmas Market, arts festivals, Remembrance Day services, and New Year's celebrations. Seasonally, it also features a temporary ice rink and Ferris wheel, adding to its festive allure. This evolution from an industrial site to a centerpiece of urban cultural and civic activity reflects Birmingham's dynamic urban development.