3.7.8
Plain English Version
The view of the city centre varies depending on where you are in the city. It looks impressive where there are landmarks, such as the BT Tower, Beetham Tower and the Rotunda, rising above other large buildings. This happens with the distant views from the M6 motorway; indeed, we could say that Birmingham is in the best place of any UK city in having a dramatic view close to a main national transport route. There are other good views from several places including the entrance to the city along the Aston Expressway and more close-up views in Highgate and Digbeth. The night time views of tall lit-up buildings are impressive when you enter Navigation Street from the back exit of New Street Station. On the other hand, entering the city by rail gives a poor view of the city – although Eastside will try and change this – and it is not impressive for people arriving at the station and catching taxis.
Original Document
The city centre’s visual image and presence varies depending on the viewpoint. The image is at its most impressive where the centre displays a strong baseline of large buildings above which rise a number of landmarks, such as the BT Tower, the Beetham Tower and the Rotunda. This is particularly the case in distant views from the M6 Motorway; indeed, Birmingham is arguably in the best position of any UK city in having a dramatic presence close to a major national transport route. Other significant images are gained from several locations including the approach along the Aston Expressway and in nearer views such as from Highgate and Digbeth. Night time views of tall illuminated buildings are especially impressive on emerging into Navigation Street from the rear exit of New Street Station. On the other hand, the rail approach into New Street Station gives a poor image of the city – although the Eastside proposals will go some way to change this – and the taxi arrival experience from the station is unimpressive.