Paradise Forum (demolished) (Birmingham)

 restaurant, shopping mall, shopping plaza, historical layer / disappeared object

Built in the 1970s as part of the Central Library complex designed by John Madin, Paradise Forum was originally an open-air public space connecting Centenary Square with Chamberlain Square. However, it was much unliked due to the draught caused by the unusual shape of the interior. To help deal with the gusts, a glass roof was constructed on the top of the building and glass entrances to either side. The interior was also furnished with retail units. John Madin has expressed his dissatisfaction at this, saying that it has ruined the integrity of the building. A recent refurbishment has modernised the interior further although this is intended to be temporary. Current plans include constructing a new library overlooking Centenary Square and demolishing this and the current library to make way for commercial-led mixed-use development on the site by Argent in conjunction with Birmingham City Council. There have been recent campaigns to get the buildings listed but it is widely considered that heavy public opinion against it and the fact that it has been massively changed by recent developments will lead to this failing to gain any form of protection status.

Paradise Forum
Paradise Place
Birmingham
West Midlands
B3 3HJ
www.paradiseforum.co.uk/