Birmingham's 'time warp' pothole uncovers historic Victorian cobbled street
A gaping hole which opened up in the tarmac along St Vincent Street in Birmingham has unveiled a section of the city's historic cobbled streets.
Motorists in Birmingham were left astounded after discovering a 'time-warp' pothole so deep it revealed a Victorian road beneath the city's modern tarmac. The enormous cavity, which appeared on St Vincent Street, has exposed a section of the city's historic cobbled streets, leading drivers to joke that it's one of the 'more fascinating potholes' they've come across, offering a glimpse into the city's past.
However, others have used it as an example of the extensive pothole issues plaguing the city's motorists. Birmingham City Council acknowledged the 'defect', located near a bridge over a railway line, and confirmed it is awaiting repair. Karla Brindley, 33, a recruitment agency worker and regular commuter into the city centre, was among those who spotted the unusual pothole. She remarked: "There's potholes everywhere in Brum but I've never seen one so deep it reveals a road from possibly 100 plus years ago."
She added: "The cobbled road beneath it actually looks in better condition than the other roads, I guess things were built to last back then." She also noted that while it's interesting to uncover a piece of history, it underscores the significant issue of potholes in the city.
Other locals took to social media to share their thoughts, with one observing: "Hmm there is no pothole in the cobbled bit of the street, the workmen of the past did their jobs right." Another quipped: "Birmingham's most fascinating pothole. Lol." One local resident fumed: "It's a wonder BCC haven't sent someone out with a bucket of tar and then say it's fixed that's the normal stuff lately". Another exasperated citizen remarked: "Imagine all the technology now yet the cobble remains intact."
A spokesperson for Birmingham City Council has acknowledged the issue, stating: "We are aware of the defect on St Vincent Street." They added: "And it will be repaired according to relevant priorities." The council, along with its contractor Kier, insists on their dedication to heritage, saying: "The council and its contractor, Kier, are committed to preserving Birmingham's history."
They further explained: "And where sites of historical interest are uncovered, we work with the relevant specialists to protect them." For reporting road or pavement issues, the council advises: "You can report road or pavement issues on www.birmingham.gov.uk/potholes." To keep the public informed, they also mention: "You can also see our latest surfacing programmes at www.birmingham.gov.uk/highways-work-programme."
