Update on alternative track and field facility for Birchfield Harriers
As the redevelopment of the Alexander Stadium continues, the council and Birchfield Harriers can confirm alternative provision of a track and field facility has been secured for club members.
Wyndley Leisure Centre in Sutton Coldfield will be the training venue for Birchfield athletes while the Alexander Stadium undergoes major construction work to make the venue the largest dedicated athletics facility in the UK.
Equipment from the stadium including hurdles, high jump and pole vault beds and the throws cage will be relocated to the eight lane 400m track at Wyndley, operated on behalf of the council by Birmingham Community Leisure Trust. Birchfield Harriers will have use of the track twice per week (the same frequency as at the Alexander Stadium) on Monday and Wednesday evenings at the Sutton venue.
Following the completion of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the Alexander Stadium and its facilities will become a long-term focal point for sport, leisure, health and well-being activities in Perry Barr and provide Birchfield Harriers with the best permanent facility of its type for athletics use in the country.
Cllr Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “We understand the inconvenience the construction work has caused and the disappointment for those that had hope to use the facilities until later this year.
“The work programme meant no other option than to close the athletics track because the health and safety of all site visitors, including athletes, is of paramount importance.
“I’m delighted we have been able to work with trustees and officials to secure an excellent alternative training venue for Birchfield Harriers at Wyndley Leisure Centre.
“This is only a temporary measure before the club will go ‘home’ to a world-class facility at the Alexander Stadium once it is ready for re-occupation.”
Ainsley Bennett, Chair of Birchfield Harriers Trustees, added: “As Birchfield Harriers Trustees we have been working closely with the city council in what are very difficult and trying times for all.
“We are pleased with all the cooperation and consideration that has been extended to us in providing alternative training arrangements, whilst we all await the world-class facilities being built for the Commonwealth Games and the legacy this will give to athletics in the city and Birchfield Harriers for many years to come.”
The new arrangement commenced earlier this week on 10 August 2020.
