New ‘park then ride’ service launched in Birmingham

A new way to get around Birmingham has been introduced in Edgbaston, allowing shoppers and commuters a hassle-free and cheaper travelling solution.

Calthorpe Estates, which pioneered the creation of Edgbaston Village, is inviting people to leave their cars at a new secure car park along Hagley Road at Duchess Place and hop onto the bus or tram stop located just 60m away.

The Metro tramline extension to Edgbaston Village is newly opened and takes users past Five Ways, Brindleyplace, Broad Street and through the centre of Birmingham to Grand Central in 11 minutes, finishing its journey in Wolverhampton.

Regular bus services run along Harborne Road and Hagley Road, providing access throughout Birmingham and the surrounding suburbs.

The scheme has been launched to answer growing demand for travel solutions into the busy city centre, as well as to help reduce emissions, with parking costing £7 all day or £4 for three hours.

Haydn Cooper, chief executive of Calthorpe Estates, said: “We’re delighted to offer people this new way to get about in Birmingham.

“Our thriving city has never been busier, and with parking at a premium in the centre we hope this new service will help people get where they need to with minimum hassle, at a lower cost, and in a more environmentally friendly way.

“Those parking here will also enjoy access to Edgbaston Village, an exciting lifestyle destination which deserves a visit in its own right. Home to some of the city’s best independent cafes, bars, pubs and shopping experiences, visitors can enjoy a delicious breakfast before they set off or drinks and dinner after they return to complete their day out.

“We look forward to welcoming people to our thriving village and beyond in the coming months.”