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Edition No 2: Autumn 2019 FREE Your pizza

or your life! Sam and Mohammad Labban. Brave Westside Meet Brum’s warden Enoch new golden defies threat of couple... gunman in car has a very special place in the heart of By Tony Collins Mohammad Labban, the new general manager at the Hyatt Westside warden Enoch White Regency Birmingham hotel – was determined to enjoy a piz- as it’s where he proposed to za he’d just bought for his late- his wife, Sam. night break – even when a gun- Mohammad has worked man demanded he hand it over. at some of Hyatt’s most Enoch and a colleague were luxurious hotels all over the walking along Broad Street when world, but now he’s looking a car suddenly pulled up and the forward to bringing his years driver pointed a gun at him through of hospitality expertise to the open window. the city where Sam studied But when the gunman demand- at university and where his ed the pizza that Enoch, aged 62, journey towards wedded bliss had just collected from Pit Stop in began. Broad Street, the warden calmly Full story: Page 3 replied “hell, no”. The terrifying drama happened shortly before midnight on Mon- day, 26 August. Burst water Enoch, from Kingstanding, said: “We had just moved some people who’d been harassing passers-by pipe chaos outside the post office in Five Ways. Businesses were left counting “We were walking back to the of- the cost after a water main fice but stopped off at Pit Stop for was accidentally damaged a takeaway pizza to eat during my during extension work to the break. As we got to the corner of Midlands Metro route along Granville Street, outside O’Neill’s Broad Street on 26 September. bar, a grey VW Golf pulled up. The damage to the nine- “The driver was shouting some- inch mains pipe led to water thing which I thought was him ask- gushing along the centre ing for directions, so I walked over of the road, which severely to the car. As I asked ‘can I help disrupted the Broad Street you?’ he just pointed a gun at me area and left restaurants, through the open window and said shops and other local ‘you’re dead’. businesses without any water “His eyes were really crazy look- for up to a day. Turn to page 2 n Westside warden Enoch White with his favourite Hawaiian pizza. Full story: Pages 4-5 We’re working all the year round for BID members 2 Autumn 2019 Autumn 2019 3 Westside is brimming Suspect arrested Brum is where with stories By Mike Olley Westside BID general manager over pizza threat Welcome to the second the heart is edition of Westside World, the From page 1 newsletter that both highlights ing and he seemed to be as high as the successes and tackles the a kite. He said ‘I mean it, I’m going challenges in your business to shoot you now’. Then he said area. ‘give me your food’ and I just said We’re chuffed to bits that so ‘hell, no!’” many members have given us for new Enoch said he told his colleague such positive feedback on the to note the car’s registration, at newsletter. And we’re even which point the gunman dropped more delighted that so many the firearm in his lap and sped off of you have towards Five Ways. Enoch was able tipped us off to flag down a passing police car on stories for and pass on the details. us to chase. He added: “Nothing fazes me. Hyatt boss Please I just thought he’s not getting my continue to do food. My attitude was I’m black, this. Westside I’m hungry, and he’s not getting my World is for Hawaiian pizza. There was a gun n the people pointing at me and I just thought ‘if Enoch White enjoys a well- who work it’s my time, it’s my time, there was deserved snack and (right) the here, and so we need a nothing I could do about it.’” Pit Stop restaurant. continual flow of the stories Westside BID general manag- unemployed Birmingham man had that matter for you and your er Mike Olley said: “This just been arrested after the incident. He businesses and organisations. demonstrates the calibre of people has been charged with possession n New general manager Mohammad Labban outside the and (below) enjoying the stunning city views. Remember: Westside BID we have working as wardens. And of a firearm with intent to cause fear is here to champion what’s By Steve Dyson anon, Mohammad studied Hos- it also says a lot about the quality of violence, possession of a firearm, pitality Management in Cyprus made you happy and to fight of food available on Broad Street and dangerous driving, as well as a your corner when things go Mohammad Labban has experi- and as a young graduate he was – this was obviously a pizza worth number of unrelated offences. enced luxurious five-star hotels quickly snapped up by the Hyatt wrong. Our Westside World dying for!” He has appeared in court and has reflects this activity, along with all over the world, including top hotel group. A spokesperson for West Mid- been remanded in custody, with a venues in India, Jordan, Egypt He began his career more than our new website and exciting lands Police said a 46-year-old trial date fixed for February 2020. social media posts. and Dubai. 20 years ago in sales, marketing Thanks for taking the time to But romance means that Bir- and business development, work- read, and please email mingham beats all of these exot- ing at many locations including [email protected] with ic locations for the new general the Hyatt Regency Jeddah, Grand all your ideas and any queries. manager of the Hyatt Regency on Hyatt Amman, Park Hyatt Dubai Bridge Street, because this is the and Hyatt Regency Dubai. city where he once proposed to his His first general manager role wife, Sam. was in India at Hyatt Regency “Birmingham has always been Pune, followed by the Hyatt Re- a very special place to me,” said gency Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt Published on behalf of Mohammad. “It’s where my wife and more recently leading the Westside BID, the Business went to university and where I opening of the flagship Hyatt Re- “Once I started at Hyatt, I’ve re- in Aqaba, Jordan. That’s where I Improvement District is chose to propose to her many gency Aqaba Ayla Resort, on the mained loyal to the brand for an led the pre-opening operations of constantly working towards years ago. Red Sea coast of Jordan. exciting career spanning 22 years the hotel, building the team from creating a more attractive, “I cannot wait to explore Mohammad said: “I was in- in some of the most luxurious ho- employee number one to a ful- better marketed, brighter, everything that this glorious city spired from a young age by the tels in Asia. ly-staffed hotel in 18 months. safer and cleaner business has to offer and have a feeling that dazzling glamour of the hotels I “Working in different countries “Launching that hotel in Decem- environment in Birmingham’s my family and I are going to feel saw in Hollywood movies, and so and cultures gave me valuable ber 2018 was my most memorable Westside entertainment area. very at home here.” I was always destined for a career insights into the hotel industry, career moment to date – but I’ve Westside BID was voted in by Originally from Beirut in Leb- in hospitality. particularly as general manager got plans for many more.” 350 businesses in the area in In his new position as general August 2015, with a 99.75% manager at Hyatt Regency Bir- yes vote (the best in the Hotel is a prime ministerial favourite mingham, Mohammad plans to UK). Westside BID is based n Birmingham’s Broad Street in 2002 – as envisioned by Paul S Cadbury in his 1952 book. l Hyatt Regency Birmingham is a l Birmingham’s ‘Golden Mile’ continue developing what he de- at , 252-260 four-star, 319-bedroom hotel. of Broad Street is just around the scribes as its “outstanding reputa- Broad Street, B1 2HF. l It stands at a height of 75 corner, as is Gas Street Basin and tion” in the city. Broad Street goes back to the future metres (246 ft), and has 24 storeys. . He added: “My commitment Publisher: Dyson Media Ltd. l The hotel cost £37 million to l The hotel has been used for to delivering outstanding service Editor: Steve Dyson. This is how a modern Broad 2002. The detailed sketches by Pete Richmond, chief ex- build and was completed in 1990. various party conferences, and the will be vital in the way I lead all Designer: Gary Young of Street was imagined by a author Paul S Cadbury – from ecutive of Bournville Village l The Hyatt is located opposite last five Prime Ministers have all departments here, ensuring every Magic Lantern Media. future-gazer back in 1952. the Cadbury chocolate family Trust, said: “It is fantastic to the , The stayed there. guest has a truly memorable expe- Printed by: Print Design The image comes from a – visualise clean and quiet see these images being shared Rep Theatre and the International l Aria is the Hyatt’s signature rience. I’ve had some amazing op- Team, 28 Clement Street, book called Birmingham – streets, futuristic buildings – again today, and they act as Convention Centre. restaurant, sitting under a glass portunities with Hyatt so far and I Birmingham B1 2SL. Fifty Years On, which shows and hover cars. an important reminder of the am now really looking forward to plans for what famous loca- The book, which was found lasting legacy and influence l It is also just five minutes’ walk atrium. The hotel has a fitness Every effort has been made to ensure the successfully undertaking this fan- accuracy of all content, but the publisher takes tions such as Broad Street, in the Library of Birmingham, on design and place-shaping from the exclusive Mailbox and centre and a 16-metre, heated no responsibility nor accepts any liability for Bullring shopping centres. indoor pool. tastic experience at Hyatt Regency errors or omissions. Please check details with New Street and Colmore Row was originally published by of the Cadbury family on the Birmingham.” venues if travelling to events. could look like in the year The Bournville Village Trust. wider city of Birmingham.” 4 Autumn 2019 Autumn 2019 5 Water burst left us high and dry Broad Street businesses are counting the cost of ruptured mains pipe

By Tony Collins Brindleyplace was shut until 5pm and lost up to 50 covers, while Westside BID businesses were other BID businesses affected in- left counting the cost of a burst cluded Bank restaurant, Cielo res- water main which severely dis- taurant, Baguette du Monde, Yorks rupted the Broad Street area and Café, the Ikon Gallery, Pushkar res- left them without any water for taurant, and Jury’s Inn Hotel. up to a day. A spokesman for Severn Trent The damage to the nine-inch Water said they were able to bypass mains pipe was caused by workers the damaged pipe so that all but 25 involved in extending the Midlands customers had their water back on Metro route along Broad Street. within hours. It led to water gushing along the He said: “The final 25, who are centre of the road, but also cut off likely to be businesses, unfortu- the mains supply to restaurants, nately were connected to the dam- shops and other local businesses. aged part of the pipe and so didn’t A number of BID businesses left get their water back until the pipe without water following the burst was fixed. It was a really tricky re- n Tankers were parked near the ICC as repairs got underway. on Thursday, 26 September are cur- pair due to the location of the dam- rently considering compensation age and so it did take a little while.” claims due to loss of trade. Midland Metro Alliance said it Among those worst affected was wanted to thank everyone incon- Piccolinos restaurant in Brindley- venienced by the loss of water place, which was without water for supply for their “patience and un- 24 hours. derstanding” during the period until Georgia Pomes, manager at Pic- supplies were restored. colinos, said: “Our water went off Its statement added: “The team at in the morning and didn’t come the Alliance worked closely with n back until the morning after. We Severn Trent Water to restore nor- Footpaths along Broad Street were left waterlogged and deserted after workmen working on the Metro link damaged a water main. had at least 30 customers booked in mal supplies as quickly as possible. advance but we couldn’t open with- “We would urge any business out water.” which was without water and could Dave Murphy, manager at The not trade to contact their insurance Malt House pub in King Edwards company directly for any business Road, was forced to close his prem- interruption assistance.” ises until 6pm. Mike Olley, Westside BID’s gen- He said: “Around 90 per cent eral manager, said: “Many of our of our trade is lunchtime and ear- members suffered a loss of busi- ly evening, so we only took about ness arising from the chaos of this £500 on the day which is massively burst pipe, but we are nevertheless down on what we would normally grateful to the fast reaction from take. I reckon there will be a few Alliance workers to contain the compensation claims going in.” damage and help businesses wher- Similarly, Siamais restaurant in ever they could.”

n Teams of workers were drafted in to repair the damage. n Some 25 businesses around Broad Street were forced to shut down until water supplies were restored, losing hours of valuable trade. 6 Autumn 2019 Autumn 2019 7 42-storey tower Alert warden helps to joins city skyline catch bomb hoaxers By Sharon Dunn By Tony Collins This is how the new on Broad Street will look when A Westside warden has been built. praised for her observation and Property developer Moda is “powers of deduction” after breaking new ground by unveiling helping to prevent two bomb Birmingham’s tallest residential hoaxers from potentially caus- tower at a cost of at least £118 mil- ing widespread disruption on lion. Broad Street. Set for completion in 2022, The n Tower will enjoy stunning views across Birmingham. Nicola Hebberts has also been Mercian will be Birmingham’s tall- recommended for an award after est residential tower at 42 storeys, service and smart lifts that register ly included a £118 million deal with spotting the two youths, who were changing the city’s skyline forever. when residents enter the building Goldman Sachs. already suspected of making one The building, designed by Bir- and are ready and waiting at ground Johnny Caddick, managing di- hoax call, before following them mingham-based Glenn Howells level. rector at Moda, said Birmingham when they left the area. Architects, is located on the former With completion coinciding with was growing faster than any other The warden team had been alert- site of renowned nightspot The the Birmingham 2022 Common- regional UK city. ed to the bomb hoax threat by Click Club at Burberries, which wealth Games, the development He said: “We wanted to reflect police during one of their regular hosted bands such as Blur and New will also provide residents with Birmingham’s hard work, history meetings on the evening of Friday, Order between 1986 and 1990. quality health and wellness zones, and tenacity with a building that 4 October. The Mercian will have 481 apart- including a 200-metre open-air - harnesses the city’s heritage and Senior warden Peter Willis, who ments for rent, offering hotel-level ning track on the roof. purpose and combines it with un- was on patrol duty with Nicola, service and a host of on-site amen- The funding deal to support the rivalled forward thinking to bring said: “The police told us they were ities including a 24-hour concierge construction for the tower reported- next-generational living.” n Tower costing at least £118m. dealing with an ongoing incident regarding a bomb threat against a premises on Broad Street. “They had already confirmed the threat as a hoax but, because Upton bowls a the suspects hadn’t been detained, they were concerned there might be more hoax calls, each of which would have had to be investigated as if it was genuine. strike at awards “Our worry was that premis- es would have to be evacuated, The Hollywood Bowl on Broad- which would have proved costly way Plaza is basking in the glory and disruptive.” of achieving further national rec- After the meeting with police ognition in its company’s annual and venue managers ended, Peter awards. and Nicola continued their pa- The centre was awarded the acco- trol towards the Popworld bar on lade of “Amusements Excellence” Broad Street. at the recent Hollywood Bowl an- Peter added: “Nicola spotted two nual conference. youths and, as we walked past, Paul Upton, general manager of one of them started to make a gun Hollywood Bowl in Broadway Pla- sign towards her. n Westside warden Nicola Hebberts helped to catch bomb hoaxers who targeted Broad Street. za, said: “We were recognised as “Nicola just got the feeling that the number one in the entire com- these two could have been the so I radioed security at Brindley- followed them over the canal onto Nicola simply commented: “I pany for our revenue growth. bomb hoaxers because she imme- place to put a camera on them the Arena car park where police was just doing my job.” “Our revenue has gone up by a diately said to me: ‘That’s them, while Nicola kept an eye on them. detained them. But Westside BID general man- phenomenal 40 per cent year-on- they’re the ones the police are “The police were able to see “Without doubt, because of ager Mike Olley praised Nicola, Vietnamese FOod year, and we were also recognised looking for.’ what Brindleyplace was looking at Nicola’s observation skills and saying: “Clearly Nicola has an FInally arrives at brindley place for the quality of our amusement “I was sceptical as we hadn’t and confirmed they were the two powers of deduction, we were able intuitive intellect which is out- offer, stock controls, cleanliness to prevent any major disruption on standing, and I will be putting her A family run business in the heart of Brindley Place serving been given any descriptions, but suspects. authentic Vietnamese food, with a modern and innovative twist. and machine care. Nicola was sure she was correct, “The youths walked off, but we the night.” forward for an award.” Serving a variety of different Vietnamese dishes you can't find “There are 60 Hollywood Bowls elsewhere! Our specialities include: Pho, Bun, Rice, Banh Mi, around the country so this is a spe- Steam Bao Buns, Summer rolls, Vietnamese Coffees and Teas. cial moment. n The Perfect spot for lunch, even better for a casual dinner! Broadway Plaza’s Paul Upton Culinary expert is new ingredient at Pushkar “We also won Centre of the Year (right) celebrates his success. two years ago, so we came back One of Birmingham’s joined Pushkar, based at cooking, working with including The Painted “First visit, won't be the last!” - EnGheeOh with a bang after a year off,” Paul for the big films at the cinema,” he best curry restaurants 245 Broad Street, as the many top restaurants Heron, Bangalore added. said. has appointed a top restaurant’s executive across India. Express, the Michelin- "Excellent alternative to the other food outlets in BrindleyPlace" - Mcgonalds “It’s just nice to be recognised for “Also, our cleanliness standards culinary expert as its new head chef. He then moved to starred Tamarind and the work we’ve done. are through the roof. executive head chef. Mr Singh began his in 2005, spending Cinnamon Kitchen. “Best Vietnamese in Birmingham” - cookiemonster01001 “It’s recognition for the way we ”Birmingham Broadway is a rela- Chandra Singh, who has career with India’s over 14 years working Call 0121 643 7978 operate and look after our ma- tively small site so we’ve gone toe- a wealth of experience in famous Taj hotel group in some of the capital’s or email dining@ "Good food and company" - N_pham90 chines, but also making sure we to-toe with the big fish and come fine dining and Michelin- and became well-versed top, award-winning pushkardining.com to have all the merchandise in stock out with the crown.” n Chandra Singh. starred restaurants, has with Indian and European fine dining restaurants book a table at Pushkar. 8 Autumn 2019 Autumn 2019 9 Brum’s greats honoured in heart of city The Broad Street Walk of Stars is a walk of fame-style installation on the pedestrian pavement of Broad Street in the Westside area, honouring notable people from the city n (left) and Tim Munton show off the spoils of victory. or with significant connections to it. The scheme is organised and funded by Westside BID, and each star is considered and selected by the Walk of Stars committee, chaired by city comedian . The 45 stars honoured since 2007 are: 1. , Black Sabbath band member 2. Jasper Carrott, comedian 3. Noddy Holder, Slade band member 4. Murray Walker, sports commentator 5. The Archers, 6. Norman Painting, Phil Archer n Reunited: From left, Paul Smith, , Jason Ratcliffe, Michael Bell, Trevor Penney, Asif Din, Neil Smith, Dermot Reeve, n Winning the and in The Archers Dominic Ostler, Lord Mayor of Birmingham Coun Mohammed Azim, , Michael Burns, Jasper Carrott and Tim Munton. (right) ‘The Greatest Season’ by Pat Murphy. 7. Tony Iommi, Black Sabbath band member 8. Aston Villa’s 1982 European Cup-winning team 9. Tony ‘Bomber’ Brown, WBA n Winners Ian Lavender footballer and Jasper Carrott. 10. Frank Skinner, comedian 11. Gil Merrick, Birmingham City footballer Bears treble team bowl into 12. Ray Graydon, Walsall manager 13. Julie Walters, 14. Gary Newbon, TV sports presenter 15. , comedian 16. Beverley Knight, singer 17. Joan Armatrading, singer 18. Chris Tarrant, broadcaster and comedian 19. Birmingham Royal Ballet Broad Street Walk of Stars 20. David Bintley, dancer Warwickshire County Westside BID honours Warwickshire County lines thanks to the performances of 21. Roy Wood, , Wizzard and The Club made history in 1994 by West Indies cricket legend Brian Move band member winning the County Champion- Cricket Club’s legendary treble-winning team Lara. 22. , Electric Light Orchestra and ship, the Sunday League and the The presentation was made by band member Benson & Hedges Cup. from 25 years ago with a place on its Broad Jasper Carrot and the Lord Mayor 23. Matt Croucher GC, Lance Corporal awarded the The unique season included Bri- Street Walk of Stars. TOM JACKSON reports of Birmingham, Coun Mohammed George Cross in 2008 an Lara’s world record of 501 not Azim, at the Years of the Bears 24. Laurie Mansfield, theatrical agent for Jim Davidson, out for the Bears at in the And a special stone will be in- Stars, said: “The achievements gala dinner for Warwickshire play- Ken Dodd, Cannon & Ball, Tommy Steele and others B&H semi-final. stalled on Broad Street following of Warwickshire’s treble-winners ers past and present at Edgbaston, 25. Sir Keith Porter, military surgeon Now, to celebrate the 25th anni- the redevelopment work which in 1994 are rightly recognised as which also recognised 125 years as 26. Nigel Mansell, racing driver and 1992 Formula One versary of the feat, Warwickshire’s will take the Metro tram all the some of the greatest in the history a first-class county. World Champion treble-winning team has been pre- way to Five Ways. of . The event was hosted by BBC 27. Malkit Singh, musician sented with a special commemora- Jasper Carrott, chairman of West- “However, it is also one of the Sport broadcaster Pat Murphy, au- 28. Harry , champion tive plaque at Edgbaston. side BID’s Broad Street Walk of greatest sporting achievements that thor of ‘The Greatest Season’ – a child charity fundraiser Birmingham and the wider region book about the treble-winning ex- 29. Jaki Graham, singer of the West Midlands has known. ploits. 30. Ellie Simmonds, Paralympian champion swimmer “As Bears fans, we have so Neil Snowball, chief executive n many great memories of the 1994 of Warwickshire CCC, said: “Cel- 31. David Harewood, actor UB40 with their star. campaign, whether it’s the Lord’s ebrations around the 25th anniver- 32. , Electric Light Orchestra and The Move finals, ’s world record sary of the treble have formed an band member 501 at Edgbaston or the important part of our plans for this 33. Trevor Francis, Birmingham City footballer moment that we clinched the tre- year, including Pat Murphy’s ‘The 34. Ian Lavender, actor ( in Dad’s Army) ble with the Sunday League win at Greatest Season’ book, speaker 35. Dennis Amiss, cricketer . sessions with various players and 36. Ann Haydon Jones, first left-handed female “It was a very memorable time the commemorative blue plaques Wimbledon winner for many of us and it’s right, in the that have been installed at Edgbas- 37. Steel Pulse, the band year that marks the 25th anniversa- ton. 38. Toyah Willcox, singer ry, that we recognise the team on “It’s fantastic that the celebra- 39. Don Maclean, comedian the Walk of Stars.” tions are being celebrated more 40. Geezer Butler, Black Sabbath band member Warwickshire’s treble-winning widely and that the Warwickshire 41. Jamelia, singer exploits came under the leadership class of 1994 is to be recognised 42. UB40, the band of Dermot Reeve alongside alongside so many icons of Bir- 43. Black Sabbath, the band vice-captain Tim Munton, while mingham and the West Midlands 44. Bill Ward, Black Sabbath band member n The legendary 1994 Warwickshire County Cricket Club team. the campaign also caught the head- on the Broad Street Walk of Stars.” n A triumphant Brian Lara celebrates his world record of 501 not out. 45. Warwickshire County Cricket Club, 1994 treble team 10 Autumn 2019 Autumn 2019 11 Bar’s kind gesture to Banking on staff Cook staff A Broad Street cocktail bar scored loads of social media ‘likes’ when it offered a free to aid homeless meal to any Thomas Cook employee hit by the travel operator’s collapse. Revolution, based in the Fiveways Leisure Complex, made the touching gesture via Facebook with a message that read: “FREE LUNCH FOR THOMAS COOK EMPLOYEES.” The bar then added: “Come grab a free lunch dish and take a breather. We can’t imagine the shock and stress that you’re currently under, so we’d like to offer you a little something to help. Enjoy any dish from our lunch menu for free. Simply show us a recent payslip to get yours.” Thomas Cook went bust in September, leaving thousands n An artist’s impression of the new £13.2 million transformation of Birmingham’s Symphony Hall and (inset below) inside the foyer. out of work. The Revolution offer was for a limited period just after the news broke. n Westside BID chairman Dipesh Mistry reaches the finish line in Birmingham city centre. By Tony Collins ity for this year, but it also links in to the work that the BID is doing Bank staff in Birmingham have Symphony Hall set to in supporting homeless charities in been going the extra mile in aid of Birmingham. a charity that feeds and supports “We had plenty of bank staff who homeless people in the city. were up for the challenge of run- And stepping out in front was ning between branches. It was an Westside BID chairman Dipesh inspirational thing for them to get Mistry, who is the local director of involved in.” NatWest Bank in Birmingham. NatWest staff have so far raised make grand entrance Dipesh led the way as around 35 more than £4,000 from their collec- NatWest staff collectively ran more tive efforts. By Tony Collins than 200 miles on 20 September to Dipesh added: “I ran 26 miles raise money for the Midland Lang- from our branch in Stourbridge Top musician Hozier got a ar Seva Society, founded in 2013 to to the city centre via Halesowen, sneak preview of Symphony provide hot food and drink to those Smethwick, West Bromwich, Perry Hall’s £13.2 million transfor- living on the streets and on the pov- Barr and Brindleyplace where we mation ahead of a sold-out erty line. have a centre. show at the top venue, which The aim was to cover the 42 “Other staff ran other legs from kicked off his UK tour. miles that connects the 14 NatWest different branches. Some ran a few The Irish musician, whose sin- branches across the Birmingham miles such as to Shirley, or gle Take Me To Church went tri- region, with individual staff choos- Harborne to the city centre, while ple platinum, was invited to have ing how far to run between branch- others did 20 miles. It totalled well a close-up look at the Making an es. over 200 miles if you add it all up.” Entrance project which aims to Dipesh, who has been chairman Dipesh is well used to running redevelop Symphony Hall’s pub- of Westside BID for more than as he completes a half-marathon lic foyer areas. three years, took on the challenge every Sunday. “It’s not competi- In addition to a new foyer per- Plans for the revamp of the Town Hall Symphony Hall said: of running the 26 miles from the tively, just for my own well-being formance space for free and low- 3,000-capacity Symphony Hall, “We currently reach over 18,000 NatWest branch in Stourbridge to and general fitness. I have been cost activities, there will be dedi- which officially opened in 1991, people with our learning and Birmingham city centre. running for about 14 years, so this cated spaces to host learning and have been formally submitted community programmes and we He said: “Midland Langar Seva was something I have been training participation projects. to by hope to reach thousands more in Society is NatWest’s chosen char- a long time for,” he said. This is aimed at offering a rich- Performances Birmingham Ltd, the transformed spaces this pro- er and more welcoming experi- which runs the concert venue. ject will create. ence, including an enhanced food The scheme, devised by Page\ “As significant cuts are made and beverage offer, refurbished Park Architects, would see the to music tuition in our region’s toilets, additional disabled toilets current wall facing Centenary schools, this transformation will and changing facilities. Square demolished to make way support local talent by providing Hozier was joined on his 15 for a new glass facade with a an enhanced space for people to September visit by local musi- dedicated entrance to Symphony be musically creative.” cian James Attwood, who has Hall as opposed to the one inside It is hoped that the project can been involved in the young peo- the International Convention be completed in time to host the ple’s music programme at Town Centre. Conservative Party Conference n n Dipesh Mistry celebrates with members of the NatWest team. Hall Symphony Hall since 2017. Nick Reed, chief executive for in 2020. Hozier (right) and James Attwood. 12 Autumn 2019 Autumn 2019 13 Pub guide hails real i-Krave a new way ale gems Real ale fans will be eager to know that the latest edition to serve fast food of the Good Pub Guide has mentioned two pubs in the Westside BID area as “worth a visit”. One is the Tap & Spile on Gas Street, the canalside pub on three floors which opens onto the towpath. The 2020 guide, published this autumn, says the Tap & Spile welcomes children and dogs, has a “decent range of wines and enjoyable, good- value food including grills and pizzas”, with one of its bars opening until 4am. The other is the Brasshouse at 44 Broad Street, a “spacious bank conversion with enjoyable, good-value food from tapas, burgers and pizzas up”, a selection of “well-kept Marstons-related ales and guests, craft beers and cocktails” and “efficient, friendly service”. n Happy chefs cook happy food... the team at i-Krave, in Broadway Plaza. Picture: Tom Marsden By Tom Jackson n Birmingham Rep has teamed up with First Class Legacy to raise awareness about youth violence and help young people to stay safe. thegentlemanbarbers.com Business owner George Zhao is living the dream of starting his own company, while also looking to change the way that tradition- al Chinese takeaways operate. Rep helps to put youth George is celebrating the first an- niversary of i-Krave, which now employs 11 staff at its premises in Broadway Plaza, Ladywood Mid- dleway, following its successful 20% first year. OFF ALL SERVICES But as well as creating local em- MONDAY - WEDNESDAY* ployment, the 37-year-old entre- violence centre stage preneur is also hoping to bring the Chinese fast food and takeaway in- Birmingham Repertory Theatre By Tony Collins how to stay safe in the current cli- Midlands Police Crime Commis- dustry bang up to date. has been playing a key role in mate of youth violence. sioner. George said: “The current Chi- “We also treat our staff well be- raising awareness about youth Lightpost performing a play called “Theatre, drama, role-play, story- Then, in May, a young man was nese takeaways are still very tradi- cause we believe that happy chefs violence affecting the streets of Mally at Ladywood Health Centre telling and peer involvement from fatally shot in Birmingham which *When you mention WESTSIDE BID tional. They are still like they were cook happy food.” Birmingham and elsewhere. which told the moving story of a Lightpost Theatre have all helped led to a candle-lit prayer vigil at- Valid until 25th November 2019 20 to 30 years ago. George, who was encouraged by The Rep has been working with young man facing a variety of ob- facilitate these sessions.” tended by First Class Legacy’s out- “After carrying out research, I friends and family - especially his youth community engagement stacles on his journey to manhood. Mr Dennis said the programme reach team and staff, who support- thought there weren’t many take- parents - to follow his dream, says organisation First Class Legacy Nathan Dennis, director of First followed the Ladywood Your Life ed more than 80 young people. aways that were modern. They the business has gained a lot of reg- to deliver a summer programme Class Legacy, said: “This project Matters project, which First Class Mr Dennis said the summer pro- should have a modern feel and also ular customers over the past year. aimed specifically at young people, aims to positively engage young Legacy launched in March this ject had gone well with lots of pos- be of a high standard.” “Customers say they appreciate in conjunction with its own Light- people to let them know that ‘your year in partnership with The Rep, itive feedback from the young peo- i-Krave specialises in a fairly our efforts and come back time post Theatre group. life matters’ as well as helping them supported by Birmingham Youth ple who attended. He added: “We small range of popular and prov- and time again. Every compliment The programme culminated with to make positive decisions around services and funded by the West asked the young people about the HAIR FACE COLOUR WEDDINGS en food dishes such as spare ribs makes us work harder.” emotional benefits of taking part in and sweet and sour, the ones that i-Krave started at a time of in- the project and one young person George says “people love and are creasing competition in the fast said ‘it’s nice to be around people successful”. food takeaway industry. who care for you’. .DOWNLOAD OUR LOYALTY APP, SEARCH TGB ON THE APP STORE. He said: “I previously worked in a George added: “It’s very worry- “We also asked why this project range of restaurants and takeaways ing that a lot of takeaways are clos- is important and we had lots of and could see how they operated. ing down or changing owners, and perspectives and reflections come Part of one of my jobs involved new companies like Just through. For example, one young Brindleyplace: Harborne: coming up with ideas, but I found Eat have disrupted business. Tradi- person said ‘it keeps people off the Nine Brindleyplace, 2 Hampton Court Road, the mindset difficult to change. tional Chinese takeaways, such as streets’. Birmingham, Harborne, “At i-Krave, we believe in a fresh- those run by a husband and wife, “Another reflection given by a B1 2HJ B17 9AE look takeaway with high-quality are struggling. young person was the project ‘gives food and service. We are transpar- “My vision is that we set the the youth awareness about youth 0121 634 3537 0121 426 2010 ent in every way and super compli- benchmark for other takeaway violence and shows positive deci- ant. businesses to improve.” n The Rep and First Class Legacy hope their work will encourage positive decision-making behaviour. sion making’.” 14 Autumn 2019 Autumn 2019 15 Art shows Banging the drum for offer an Broad St on local TV By Tony Collins Westside BID has been extolling the virtues of Broad Street in a special video on the attractions escape that the entertainment zone has to offer. The two-minute screening, enti- tled Visit Broad Street 2019, was featured on the West Midlands Live programme, broadcast by local sat- ellite channel Birmingham TV. from It was fronted by Westside BID chairman Dipesh Mistry who spoke about the “energy” and “buzz” of the Broad Street area. The video was supported by Mid- lands Metro Alliance as a way of demonstrating that Broad Street re- winter mains open for “business as usual” n (From top) Bay despite disruption from the ongoing Pollution, Looking In Metro extension work. n Cartography of the Unseen and (bottom right) Deep Into the and Nomad 1 by local Dipesh told the TV audience that Darkness, Waiting, both by Meryl McMaster. artist John Walker. his responsibility was to ensure that the Westside BID board focused on By Sharon Dunn landscapes, literally and artistical- making the area a “brighter, clean- ly, and it is a privilege to have him er, safer place for people who visit Two major new art exhibitions back with us for a long-awaited and live in Westside”. will help to bring a warm glow to He said there was “always an en- homecoming.” n Dipesh Mistry praises Broad Street’s attractions on Birmingham TV. Ikon Gallery visitors this winter. Meryl, who comes from a rising ergy and buzz” along the street dur- The contrasting exhibitions will generation of indigenous artists in ing an evening down Broad Street, a wedding party, or a special family necessarily have to go ‘taxi here, both be on display at the gallery for Canada, has captured images across and that there is “always something occasion. taxi there’. almost three months between 4 De- various Canadian provinces, in- going on … a great mix of people “We’ve got more than 40 restau- “You can start from the bottom cember this year and 23 February, cluding ancient sites and early set- visiting the area, and a real buzz”. rants or cafes to eat at and we’ve end of the street and work your way 2020. tlements, with the aim of acknowl- Dipesh said: “What makes Broad also got over 30 bars that are here up. Birmingham-born artist John edging the effects of colonisation. Street a really popular destination is to suit everyone’s pockets.” “Broad Street has got it all, it’s Walker, described as one of the She has also interpreted stories that, first of all, there is a lot of his- The video also featured Matt got it for everybody. To put it sim- leading abstract painters of the last collected from relatives, friends, tory in terms of some of the venues. Sharp from O Bar on Broad Street ply, it’s perfect for the best night 50 years, has produced a selection and community elders. One of the venues we’ve had here who said every bar imaginable out.” of new work entitled “New Paint- She said: “I want to bring specif- for over 100 years.” could be found on the road. The video can be seen at https:// ings”. ic awareness to the broad conse- Dipesh described how people He said: “It’s a mile long, full vimeo.com/362258716 and on Bir- At the same time, the Ikon Gal- frequently used Broad Street as a of bars, clubs and restaurants. The mingham TV on Freeview channel Charles Dickens’ quences of colonisation and how lery will also be showcasing “As the mentality of greed and/or lack location to celebrate special occa- beauty about Broad Street is that 7, Sky Guide 117, and Virgin Me- Immense as the Sky”, an exhibition of foresight is still impacting us to- sions, such as a significant birthday, it’s all in one area, so you don’t dia 159. of photographs by Native Ameri- day.” can Meryl McMaster, a Plains Cree Selected works from her 2017 from Saskatchewan in Canada. series “Edge of a Moment” are John, who studied at the Mose- also presented at Ikon, which nods Spreading the word at Brummies Networking ley School of Art and, later, the towards the wider environmental Birmingham College of Art, went consequences of colonisation. Westside BID members have By Luisa Huggins Richard added: “We have a on to achieve international success been invited to attend free diverse member base, ranging Main House | 3-14 Dec 2019 which saw him divide his time be- monthly business networking Brummies Networking offers from small businesses right tween the UK and New York, as events that already regularly at- free monthly events with zero through to large and multina- Tickets £17 (£16), U16 £15 | £10 Matinée Sun 8 (11am) tract up to 100 people. meeting fees and zero annual tionals. Schools + Groups Offers available – contact us for details well as several years in Australia. Brummies Networking meets membership fees. “There’ll always be someone Family Ticket £48 (2 Adults + 2 Children) He now lives in Maine, USA, from 10am to 12 noon on the “Our events are already attract- useful to meet and talk to.” Relaxed Performance Sun 8 (3:15pm) which was the inspiration for what he calls his collection of “anti-sce- second Tuesday of every month ing 70 to 100 people and every- Mike Olley, general manager The perfect way to get into the nic” paintings. He explained: “I at Grosvenor Casino at Five- one attending can be guaranteed of Westside BID, said: “Brum- festive spirit for the whole family! can’t paint the scenic part. I’m an- ways Leisure Complex on Broad a lively event in an informal, mies Networking is a great Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Street, organised by Richard friendly atmosphere. There are monthly event that can really returns to the this ti-scenic. It took me about ten years December by popular demand! before I could paint the place even Heathcote and Iwan Thomas. no 60-second slots and no meet- help our members to make more though I was living there. I found Richard, who founded the ing formats, allowing for pure people aware of their products a place where it smells, and all the group, said: “Business network- and open networking through- and services.” garbage comes in, and that allowed ing is a vital element in any out. For more information on me to paint because it wasn’t sce- company’s awareness-generat- “It’s business networking: Brummies Networking visit 0121 643 5858 nic.” ing strategy, but not everyone stripped back. Simply filled with https://brummies-networking. crescent-theatre.co.uk A spokesman for Ikon Gallery wants to take the risk on events lots of great people and busi- co.uk/faqs/, follow @brum- said: “John left Birmingham more n Networking organisers Richard that command fees or costly an- nesses to connect and develop miesnet and subscribe to the than 50 years ago to explore new Heathcote (left) and Iwan Thomas. nual memberships. That’s why relationships with.” podcast @brumpod. 16 Autumn 2019

n Upcoming musical highlights include Smethwick’s Chickenbone John (left), and performances by The Nitecrawlers (above) and the Mark Harrison Band (below).

Dreaming of a Blues Christmas in Westside By Tony Collins

A famous live Blues music night- club brand is getting ready to celebrate Christmas for the first time in nearly 50 years. Henry’s Blueshouse was home to music legends such as Led Zeppe- lin, Status Quo, Thin Lizzy, Rory Gallagher and Birmingham’s own Black Sabbath when it first opened at The Crown in Station Street in 1968. It closed less than three years lat- er, but Henry’s is now back and has an array of top performers lined up to delight fans in the run-up to the n Kent DuChaine from Minnesota (left) and The Whiskey Brothers will be delighting fans of the Blues. festive season. Henry’s Blueshouse nights, or- the world’s most respected acoustic about their roots and what the Blues Tuesday, which we’re sure will ganised by Big Bear Records, are guitar players, and Chickenbone means to them. continue in the run-up to Christ- now held every Tuesday at The John from Smethwick, famed for Jim Simpson, managing director mas.” Bulls Head on Bishopsgate Street, making cigar-box guitars. of Big Bear Records, said: “De- Jim explained that Henry’s off Broad Street. Each performance includes a spite all this mass merchandising Blueshouse took its name from a Forthcoming shows include Kent regular Blues Talkin’ slot when a of bands today, the Blues can still “particularly handsome” Afghan DuChaine from Minnesota, one of Blues musician or personality talks attract a sold out audience every Hound belonging to a neighbour. It closed in 1970 when the fledgling Black Sabbath of Ozzy Osbourne and Tony Iommi fame went on tour with Jim as manager. Explaining why he decided to re- vive Henry’s earlier this year, Jim added: “We’ve been working in the Blues all those years and it has nev- er gone away. We put Blues on dur- ing the Birmingham Jazz Festival, which is always popular, and there are a lot of good bands around.” Check out Henry’s Blueshouse listings at www.bigbearmusic.com/ n Henry’s Blueshouse will host performances by Arthur Ebeling (left) and Will Killeen in coming weeks. henrys-blueshouse/ Do you have a story for Westside World? If you have something to tell us about, or if you would like us to highlight the work of your business in our winter edition, please contact [email protected]