Southside, Birmingham facts for kids

The Southside Apartments on Hurst Street

Southside is a vibrant and modern name for a special district in the heart of Birmingham, England. It's a lively part of the city centre where many different communities and attractions come together. This area is known for its unique blend of culture, entertainment, and welcoming spaces.

Exploring Southside's Main Attractions

Southside is home to several exciting places that make it unique. These include the Chinese Quarter, a popular entertainment complex called The Arcadian, and the famous Hippodrome Theatre. It also has a welcoming community area known for its diverse and friendly atmosphere.

The Chinese Quarter

The Chinese Quarter is a lively part of Southside. It is filled with amazing restaurants, shops, and cultural centers. You can find delicious food and unique items here. This area celebrates Chinese culture and traditions.

The Arcadian

The Arcadian is a popular spot for entertainment. It has many restaurants, bars, and cafes. It's a great place to meet friends and enjoy a meal. The Arcadian often hosts events and activities.

The Hippodrome Theatre

The Hippodrome Theatre is one of the busiest theatres in the UK. It hosts a wide range of shows. You can see musicals, ballets, operas, and pantomimes here. It's a fantastic place to experience live performances.

A Welcoming Community Area

Southside also features a special community area. This part of the district is known for being very inclusive. It welcomes people from all walks of life. It has many cafes, shops, and places to relax. This area is a hub for community events and gatherings.

Making Southside Even Better

In May 2009, the Birmingham City Council approved a big plan. The council is the group that manages the city. They decided to spend £530,000 to improve the community area. This money was used to make the streets nicer and safer for everyone.

Street Upgrades and Green Spaces

The improvements focused on Hurst Street and parts of Kent Street. Workers planted more street trees along these roads. This made the area greener and more pleasant. They also made the pavements wider. This created more space for outdoor seating at cafes. It means people can enjoy their food and drinks outside.

Brighter Lights and Safer Streets

The plan also included better street lighting. New, brighter lights with decorative lanterns were installed. This makes the streets feel safer, especially at night. These changes helped to create a more inviting atmosphere. They made Southside an even better place for people to visit and enjoy.