Hostile Architecture

Ben Waddington

Sat 23 Aug | 11am

100 mins

£0-11

Meet: King Alfred's Place, Centenary Square, Birmingham B1 2DR What3words ///zooms.racks.scans

'Hostile Architecture' is the urban designer's term to describe elements of the public realm that subtly but deliberately restrict civic behaviour. Most visibly, these may appear as the spikes on windowsills and ledges to deter pigeons and humans, or the recent intrusive concrete anti-terrorist blockades. More subtly, they may appear as gently-pebbled pavement areas or anti-skateboard notches…and have you ever noticed how hard it is to find somewhere to sit down in Birmingham?

All cities are designed this way now, Birmingham no exception. This 90-minute city walk explores the various discrete and brutal solutions planners have used in recent years to steer our movement and behaviour.

Footwear suitable for urban walking and weather-appropriate clothing is essential.

Accessible

Please see the Walk Info page to get the best out of the event.