Longbridge and West Heath Area Guide 

Longbridge

Longbridge is a suburb located in the south-western part of Birmingham. It is known for its historic association with the British car industry, as it was once the site of the Longbridge car plant, which was one of the largest car factories in the world. Where the vast factory complex once was are now housing areas, a shopping centre, a college, a technology centre and many other new developments.

Housing: Longbridge has a mix of housing types, including traditional 1930s semi-detached and terraced houses, as well as newer developments, such as the Longbridge Village development, which includes apartments and townhouses.

Demographics: Longbridge has a population of around 7,000 people, The suburb is home to a mix of ages and incomes, with a range of families, young professionals, and older residents.

Transport links: Longbridge has good transport links, with a train station that provides direct services to Birmingham city centre, Redditch, and Worcester. There are also several bus routes that serve the area, providing connections to other parts of Birmingham and the surrounding region.

Shopping: The Longbridge Town Centre, which opened in 2013, is a major shopping destination in the area with a range of shops and services, including a large Marks and Spencer store, a Sainsbury’s supermarket, and several independent retailers.

Education: There are several primary and secondary schools in Longbridge, including Colmer’s School and Sixth Form College, which is a large secondary school with academy status. Of particular note is South and City College Birmingham for Art and Design

Parks and green spaces: Longbridge has several parks and green spaces, including Cofton Park, which covers over 135 acres and features a lake, a playground, and a BMX track.

Community facilities: The suburb has a community centre, a library, and several sports clubs, including a cricket club and a football club. There is a large entertainment complex including multi-screen cinema.

History: Longbridge has a rich industrial history, and the Longbridge car plant was once one of the largest employers in the area. Today, the site has been redeveloped, and it is home to a range of businesses and housing developments.

Overall, Longbridge is a diverse suburb that offers good transport links, a range of shopping and leisure facilities, and access to parks and green spaces. It is a popular place to live for families, young professionals, and those interested in the area’s industrial heritage.

West Heath

West Heath is a suburban area located in the south-west of Birmingham.

Parks and open spaces: The area is home to a number of parks and open spaces, including West Heath Park, Cofton Park, and Lickey Hills Country Park.

Housing: West Heath has a mix of housing, from council estates to privately owned properties. The area is popular with families due to its affordable housing options.

Schools: There are several schools in the area, including West Heath Primary School.

Local amenities: West Heath has a range of local amenities, including shops, supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants.

Transport links: The area has good transport links, with several bus routes running through the area and Longbridge train station nearby.

History: West Heath has a rich history, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. It was also home to a number of Roman settlements.

Community: West Heath has an active community spirit, with several local events and activities, including a weekly farmer’s market and a community garden project.

Overall, West Heath offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with plenty of green spaces and local amenities, as well as easy access to Birmingham and other areas.