University Square is located at the University of Birmingham on it's world famous Edgbaston Campus. It is between the Westgate and Eastgate, and north of the Aston Webb Building.

University Square at the University of Birmingham (August 2015). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

In the autumn of 2018, new grass turf had been laid in University Square. At the time you could only enjoy the Green Heart from the paths (until it opened in January 2019).

To the Green Heart from University Square (November 2018). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

University Square is located next to the Law Building, and there is archways that leads to the Chancellor's Court and the Joseph Chamberlain Memorial Clocktower. As well as to the Great Hall.

University Square in the rain (November 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The redeveloped public square is an environmentally friendly public space for people and wildlife, with a variety of trees including Oaks, Limes, Redwoods and even a Tulip tree.

Green Heart at the University of Birmingham (August 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Square also includes the University’s first rain gardens and a variety of plants and grasses.

 

Green Heart project 

This amazing new parkland is purposely located in the heart of the University's historic campus. It was completed in January 2019.

Green Heart from University Square (January 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

As well as opening up the centre of campus for students, staff and the local community to enjoy, this project has produced a unique space for performances, for socialising and for meeting and studying. 

Outdoor benches for studying at the Green Heart (February 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The project has enabled new pedestrian and cycle routes to be opened up, allowing students, staff and visitors to the campus to travel safely and with ease. 

At the Green Heart towards the new Main Library (February 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

It has also opened up views across the whole campus.  

Old Joe from the Green Heart at the University of Birmingham (February 2021). Photography by Daniel Sturley

 

The project was overseen by Wilmott Dixon who were equally committed to leaving a legacy in the local community and have hosted students from the University of Birmingham School in the project.

Green Heart at the University of Birmingham (August 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Watch the University of Birmingham's film about Green Heart HERE.

 

Find out more about the Green Heart project at:

www.uobgreenheart.com 

 

Dame Barbara Hepworth's Ancestor 1

This bronze sculpture by Dame Barbara Hepworth has been on the campus since 1970. It was in University Square, but was slightly moved in the Green Heart part of the square. It is made of bronze and called Ancestor 1. Part of the University's sculpture trail.

Dame Barbara Hepworth's Ancestor 1 at the Green Heart (February 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Coat of arms / shields

This trio of three coat of arms / shields was probably saved from the old demolished library. They were originally sculpted by William Bloye. And now mark the entrance to the Green Heart from University Square.

University of Birmingham coat of arms (January 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown